On October 16, a tragic accident occurred at the intersection of Bank Street and Holtby Road in Bakersfield, California, involving Judith Deval and 8-year-old Ricardo Ismael Aguilar. During the incident, Deval was reportedly using her cellphone, engaged in a conversation with her aunt, when she struck Ricardo. After the initial impact, Deval exited her vehicle without properly securing it, resulting in the car reversing over Ricardo a second time.
Ricardo sustained severe injuries from the accident and, despite medical efforts, succumbed to his injuries two days later in the hospital. The incident underscores the critical dangers associated with distracted driving and the importance of vehicle safety measures.
Legal Implications and Charges
Charges Against Judith Deval
Judith Deval faces several serious charges in connection with the fatal accident involving 8-year-old Ricardo Ismael Aguilar. These charges include:
- Felony Vehicular Manslaughter: Reflects the gravity of the incident and the resulting loss of life.
- Failure to Yield to a Pedestrian: A critical traffic violation underscoring the importance of pedestrian safety.
- Driving While Using a Cellphone: Highlights the dangers of distracted driving.
- Failure to Secure a Stopped Vehicle: Relates to her actions after initially striking the child, which led to further harm.
- Illegal Window Tinting: Although a lesser violation, it adds to the overall legal considerations of the case.
Legal Proceedings
The legal proceedings have commenced, with Deval making her first court appearance shortly after the incident. Her next court date is scheduled for April, where the charges will be further examined.
Importance of Adhering to Traffic Laws
This case serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of distracted driving and the critical need to adhere to all traffic laws to ensure public safety.
How Goldfaden Benson Can Assist Victims of Vehicular Manslaughter
Families affected by vehicular manslaughter face significant emotional and financial challenges. They may be entitled to seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, funeral costs, and emotional distress. In these difficult times, securing experienced legal representation is crucial to ensure that justice is served and responsible parties are held accountable.
At Goldfaden Benson, we focus on representing victims of distracted driving incidents, providing comprehensive legal support to families impacted by such tragedies. Our dedicated legal team works tirelessly to pursue justice and obtain financial compensation for those affected. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to guiding families through the legal process with compassion and professionalism.
If your family has been impacted by a similar incident, contact Goldfaden Benson today for expert legal support and to discuss your options for pursuing a claim.
