[04-12-2023] Kern County, CA – 23-Month–Old Toddler Fatally Struck by Vehicle in Southwest Bakersfield

A 23-month-old toddler was fatally struck by a vehicle in Southwest Bakersfield on Wednesday evening, April 12, 2023.

According to the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the fatal crash occurred around 6:20 p.m. near the 12400 block of Southworth Court.

The toddler, named Presley Celedon, was struck by an unknown vehicle. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but was declared dead shortly after.

The authorities have not yet disclosed more information about the fatal accident.

Trustworthy Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

In California, pedestrians have the same legal protections as other road users, including drivers, passengers, and cyclists. If you or a loved one were hurt as a pedestrian in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you could sue the at-fault driver for compensation.

Our experienced lawyers will review your case, advise you on how to proceed, and consider everything that could influence the settlement offer during the free consultation.

Our trustworthy Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., have well-established careers and accolades in advocating for accident victims. Our clients have been awarded compensation totaling $750 million.

Set up a free consultation with one of our lawyers by calling (888) 488-1391 or completing our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

It can be challenging to think clearly when you have been injured in a car accident. However, the outcome of your claim against the negligent party heavily depends on what you do and say at the accident scene. The following tips may help you avoid reducing your personal injury claim value:

• Call the police after the accident, and make sure the officer creates an accident report.
• Take photos of your injuries, the accident scene, property damage, weather conditions, road conditions, and the vehicle that struck you.
• Take a picture of the driver at fault’s license, insurance card, and license plate.
• Obtain all eyewitnesses’ names, contact information, or anyone who has seen anything.
• Immediately visit a doctor or other healthcare professional and inform them of all affected parts of your body.
• Keep a journal detailing your injuries and recovery. Describe how you feel, the treatment you receive, and the costs you pay.
• Do not speak to an insurance adjuster or accept a settlement offer before speaking with an experienced lawyer.
• Stay off social media. Don’t post about your accident or its circumstances.
• Contact a trustworthy pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case.

Fatal Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Pedestrians are at greater risk of death or severe injury in a collision. If a pedestrian is hit, they have nothing to protect themselves.

Pedestrian fatalities have increased in recent years across the United States. In recent decades, pedestrians have made up the majority of those killed or hurt in car accidents.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian fatalities increased by 27% between 2007 and 2016, while other traffic deaths decreased by 14%.

In 2017, 5,977 people died on foot in the United States. According to the latest data, an estimated 88 people are killed every minute. In 2017, 137,000 people were treated in hospitals for non-fatal pedestrian injuries.

According to a recent study, Californian pedestrians face a higher risk of injury or death than pedestrians in other states. In 2020, pedestrian accidents in California resulted in 55,000 injuries and 6,516 deaths.