Bakersfield DUI Crash: Gavin Mundschau Faces Manslaughter Charge

Sadly, impaired driving continues to be one of the leading causes of fatal and serious-injury collisions across California, according to data from the state’s Office of Traffic Safety.

In 2023 alone, 1,355 lives were lost in alcohol-related crashes statewide — a striking 55 percent increase compared to 2014.

Drivers under the influence often experience impaired judgment, blurred vision, slowed coordination, and delayed reaction times, all of which can dramatically increase the risk of a serious crash. Candice Bond, a seasoned DUI accident attorney, weighed in on incidents like this one.

“Apart from any criminal proceedings, the victim’s family may also have grounds to pursue compensation through a civil claim against the at-fault driver,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst with Accident Injury News. “Alongside the thorough work performed by law enforcement, an attorney can follow up with key witnesses, review any available surveillance footage from the crash site, and request phone and text records from the responsible party. Acting as an advocate, an attorney can offer compassionate support to a grieving family while protecting their legal rights and pursuing accountability for a driver’s reckless choices.”

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

The family of the victim who lost his life in this crash may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Relatives of wrongful death victims may be able to seek compensation for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress stemming from a sudden and devastating accident.

“We know firsthand the hardship families face in moments like this, and protecting their rights matters deeply,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal. “A wrongful death attorney will closely monitor the official investigation and work to safeguard the family’s best interests. Surviving relatives of wrongful death victims may be entitled to pursue damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress resulting from a tragic or catastrophic accident.”

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)