Bakersfield, CA — A Bakersfield attorney was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI after a crash at a DUI checkpoint Saturday night, December 14, 2024, left several California Highway Patrol (CHP) employees injured, according to KBAK.
The driver, identified as 42-year-old William Charles Wright, reportedly drove his 2023 Lexus RX350 through a roadway closure at Calloway Drive near Slikker Drive at approximately 8:05 PM.
According to CHP reports, Wright collided with the rear of a parked CHP patrol vehicle, propelling it forward into CHP personnel who were on foot.
The incident occurred as officers were setting up the checkpoint, resulting in moderate injuries to multiple CHP employees and minor injuries to Wright. All injured parties were transported to Kern Medical for treatment.
Wright, who operates his own law firm in Bakersfield, is facing serious legal repercussions. The Kern County District Attorney’s Office has not yet filed formal charges, but Wright could face multiple felony counts for DUI causing bodily injury, as well as the suspension or revocation of his law license.
Additionally, Wright is required to report his arrest to the State Bar of California, which is expected to launch its own investigation alongside the criminal proceedings.
This arrest comes as the CHP continues to combat DUI-related crashes, having already made 750 DUI arrests this year.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
Personal Injury Claims
When the actions of reckless drivers cause others to be injured, the cost of recovery should not fall on their victims. Filing a Personal Injury claim with the at-fault party’s insurance can provide compensation for medical bills and lost wages during recovery.
However, insurance companies often try to deny or minimize claims. That’s why having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney on your side is crucial to securing proper compensation for your injuries.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
