[04-17-2023] Kern County, CA – One Pedestrian Fatally Struck by Vehicle on Highway 99

A 32-year-old man died after being hit by a car in Kern County on Monday afternoon, April 17, 2023.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the accident occurred around 4 p.m. in the southbound lanes of Highway 99 near Olive Drive.

As per the report, the vehicle traveled 70 miles per hour. While changing lanes to yield to another car, the vehicle moved into the pedestrian’s lane and struck him from the front.

The pedestrian was found injured in the center divider and later pronounced dead at a local hospital because of the severity of his injuries.

Alcohol and drugs were not considered factors in the crash. The CHP is still investigating the case; no name has been released.

Trusted Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Kern County

Drivers should be careful when approaching pedestrians, even if they’re not in a designated crosswalk. Pedestrians have the right-of-way at all intersections, as far as the law allows. An investigation will determine whether the driver who hit the pedestrian violated any traffic laws.

If the driver is found to be responsible, they can be held accountable through a wrongful death lawsuit. Compensatory damages may be awarded, including lost wages, emotional distress, and funeral costs.

You can rely on our most trusted Kern County pedestrian accident lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings.

Our firm has recovered more than $750 million for California clients.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After Pedestrian Accident

It’s hard to think clearly after being hit by a vehicle, significantly if you’re injured. However, your actions and words at the accident scene can dramatically affect your personal injury claim against the negligent party. The following tips can help you avoid doing something that could reduce the value of your claim:

1. Call the police and ensure that an accident report is created.
2. Take photos of your injuries, property damage, the accident scene, weather conditions, road conditions, and the vehicle that hit you.
3. Take a picture of the at-fault driver’s license, insurance card, and license plate.
4. Get all eyewitnesses’ names and contact information or anyone who saw the accident.
5. Be sure to seek medical attention immediately and tell a professional about every affected part of your body.
6. Keep a journal documenting your injuries and recovery process, including how you feel, the treatment you receive, and the costs you pay.
7. Only speak to an insurance adjuster or accept a settlement offer once you have consulted an experienced lawyer.
8. Avoid posting about the accident or circumstances on social media.
9. Contact a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney in California right away.

Fatal Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Pedestrians are at a higher risk of suffering severe injuries or death when hit by a car, as they have no protection. Pedestrian accidents resulting in injuries or fatalities have become increasingly common on American roads over the past few decades, making it the leading cause of traffic-related deaths.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian fatalities rose by 27% from 2007 to 2016, while other types of traffic deaths decreased by 14%. In 2017, 5,977 people died while walking in the United States, with an estimated 88 people being killed every day and 137,000 treated for non-fatal injuries.

A recent study found that pedestrians in California are at a higher risk of injury or death than those in other states, with 55,000 injuries and 6,516 deaths resulting from pedestrian accidents in 2020. Speeding or failing to yield to pedestrians are the most common causes of pedestrian deaths and injuries. It is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced lawyer when dealing with the legal system.