Bakersfield Man Struck and Killed Saturday Night on South Union Avenue
BAKERSFIELD, CA, (August 02, 2025) - A tragic collision in south Bakersfield claimed the life of 42-year-old Juan Sigfredo Hernandez Melara on Saturday night, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Juan Sigfredo Hernandez Melara, 42, tragically died after being struck by a vehicle in a pedestrian accident Saturday night in south Bakersfield, according to authorities.
The incident occurred at approximately 9:29 p.m. on South Union Avenue, just north of Taft Highway. Preliminary reports indicate that a Honda Civic was traveling northbound in the number one lane when Melara, a Bakersfield resident, attempted to cross the northbound lanes. The vehicle struck Melara, causing serious injuries.
Melara was transported to Kern Medical, where he later died from his injuries.
The driver of the Honda Civic sustained minor injuries. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
Each year, thousands of pedestrians are killed on U.S. roads—a crisis driven by factors such as reckless driver behavior, inadequate infrastructure, and roads designed primarily for cars. Between 2009 and 2023, pedestrian deaths rose a staggering 80%, while all other traffic fatalities increased 13%, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).
“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.
Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal, noted that it’s imperative to have an independent probe conducted by a seasoned lawyer to help protect the rights of the victim’s family in cases such as this.
Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice that they deserve.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. The family of Juan Sigfredo Hernandez Melara may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim.
“Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident,” Bond added.
“Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth,” she said. “However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure they are treated fairly and compensated justly.”
Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).