BAKERSFIELD, CA – A tragic accident occurred early Sunday morning on Stockdale Highway and Coffee Road, claiming the lives of two individuals and leaving another hospitalized. The incident, suspected to be the result of driving under the influence, serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of impaired driving, especially during holiday celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day.
Max and Desiree Mooney were in an Uber on their way home when their vehicle was struck by another car around 1:30 a.m. The Kern County Coroner’s Office identified the couple as the victims in this fatal collision. The driver suspected of causing the crash is currently hospitalized and faces arrest upon release.
The Uber driver involved in the crash also sustained injuries and is expected to undergo surgery. Her husband reports that she is in stable condition and recovering, though the incident has understandably shaken their family.
Chris Hagan, an attorney with Chain Cohn Clark who represents victims of DUI incidents, highlights the preventable nature of such tragedies. In Kern County alone, 37 lives were lost to DUI collisions last year, with 731 individuals injured. Hagan emphasizes the importance of planning sober rides, whether through rideshare services, designated drivers, or public transportation.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 290 people died in alcohol-related crashes during St. Patrick’s Day festivities between 2019 and 2022. Alarmingly, 38% of fatal crashes on St. Patrick’s Day in 2022 occurred between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., underscoring the risks associated with holiday celebrations and alcohol consumption.
Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) issued a statement expressing their support for the Mooney family and urging the community to take proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies. They stress that losing a loved one in such a manner is a life-altering heartbreak.
Despite the Mooneys’ tragic fate, Hagan advises against letting this discourage others from making responsible choices like using rideshare services. The Mooneys took the right steps to ensure their safety, and while the outcome was devastating, it should not deter others from doing the same.
The ongoing issue of DUI collisions remains a significant concern, with Hagan noting that his firm frequently receives calls from individuals affected by such incidents. He and MADD continue to advocate for safe transportation options and encourage everyone to plan ahead to avoid driving under the influence.