Zacarias Chipahua (Full Name: Zacarias Ecahua Chipahua) Died Following Bakersfield Hit-and-Run Truck Accident on South H Street and Houghton Road
BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA (October 26, 2025) – A 26-year-old man identified as Zacarias Chipahua was killed in a Bakersfield hit-and-run car accident by the intersection of South H Street and Houghton Road.
Kern County officials are saying that the accident occurred around 5:18 a.m. on Thursday. Zacarias Chipahua was a passenger in a Chevrolet Impala headed westbound on Houghton Road.
The Impala came to a complete stop at the intersection before it was struck by a Chevy Silverado pickup truck that failed to stop at a posted stop sign. Photos of the accident site showed the Impala with major damage and the pickup truck flipped onto its side.
The driver of the truck fled the scene. Paramedics were called to help all of the victims. The driver and a 45-year-old passenger both suffered more moderate injuries.
Sadly, Zacarias Chipahua died following the hit-and-run crash. A full investigation remains ongoing.
Liability for Bakersfield Hit-and-Run Car Accidents
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise caution to avoid colliding with other vehicles. They must adhere to all traffic regulations and street signs. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 22450, “The driver of any vehicle approaching a stop sign at the entrance to, or within, an intersection shall stop at a limit line, if marked, otherwise before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection.” Drivers should take several actions to avoid collisions.
- Rest: Drivers should be well rested before heading out onto the road.
- Blind Spots: Drivers should check their blind spots before making turns at intersections.
- Speed: Drivers should slow down during periods of reduced visibility and heavy traffic.
There is a presumption of negligence on the part of any driver that goes past a yield sign without yielding. Depending on the facts of any case, there could be several liable parties for any car accident. This may include the company that owned or operated any pickup truck. Pickup trucks are routinely used for commercial purposes. Employers in California can be held vicariously liable for the wrongful actions of their workers who were operating within the course and scope of their job duties.
Investigating Liability for California Car Accidents
Determining what parties could be liable for any particular collisions requires evidence collection and a careful review of the facts. Car accidents can be highly complex events. The factors that contribute to any collision can take place hours, days, or even weeks beforehand. What follows are just a few of the items that should be taken into consideration.
- Police Report: The police report for any collision should be closely reviewed. These reports are far from exhaustive. But they can provide key insights.
- Accident Photos: Another important aspect of investigating any accident is reviewing crash site photos.
- Medical Records: The injuries and subsequent medical records that are created after any crash can also help reveal how a collision took place.
- Trip Purpose: The purpose of the at-fault driver’s trip prior to the accident should also be considered. Trips that are for a work purpose could create additional liability beyond the driver.
Car accidents are often highly preventable. They tend to involve some amount of human error. Drivers that flee the scene of injury collisions expose themselves to criminal liability in addition to civil liability. The family of any person who is killed due to the negligence of another driver may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim.
Investigating Bakersfield Hit-and-Run Car Accidents
We at Carrazco Law extend our deepest condolences to the family of Zacarias Chipahua. Any person who may have more information should reach out to the police. This was a preventable tragedy that should not have taken place. The driver involved in this crash should do the right thing and turn themself in. It is never too late to do the right thing.
Do you need more information about a Bakersfield hit-and-run car accident? Our team of accident investigators is here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that hit-and-run drivers are located and held accountable for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (800) 541-3244.
