Kern County Accident Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Kern County Accident Attorneys Protect Your Rights With Integrity
The law mandates that people living together in a society exercise reasonable care while interacting with people and property. However, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one was injured due to someone else’s negligence, our Kern County accident attorneys are here to help you pursue compensation. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 to learn more about our legal services.
Located in Central California, Kern County is home to approximately 900,000 individuals. In terms of population, it is one of the state’s fastest-growing regions. The county is known as “The Golden Empire” due to its history of oil, gold, and agricultural production. Moreover, major California freeways — Interstate 5 and Route 99 — run through Kern County. These busy roads connect major metropolitan areas, agricultural regions, seaports, and freight terminals. Unfortunately, the congestion on these roads and the various activities within the county have caused numerous accidents.
If you are a resident of Kern County and have been in an accident, you should know that you may have legal options. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and determine the appropriate action to take based on your circumstances.
Contact our law firm if you need an accident attorney in Kern County to help you with the legal aspect of your personal injury case. You may be able to seek compensation depending on the nature and extent of your injuries. You can pursue damages for lost wages and future earnings if you missed work due to your injuries. Also, you can seek non-economic damages for the pain and suffering you endured due to your injuries.
Our personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence to prove your damages and negotiate a settlement based on your losses under the law. Our dedicated attorneys have years of experience representing clients in personal injury cases. Let us handle your claim while you focus on healing.
What Can Our Kern County Accident Attorneys Do
If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to the negligent acts of another party, our accident attorneys can help you understand how personal injury claims work.
Here are some of the other ways our Kern County injury law firm can assist you:
- Evaluate Your Case — Our accident lawyers will evaluate your case thoroughly to create a tailored strategy. We will work to help determine which parties are liable and how local laws may impact the outcome.
- Gather Evidence — Proving responsibility depends on evidence. Our team will gather police records, witness accounts, traffic camera footage, and other proof. We will also work with accident reconstructionists to obtain expert testimony to support your claim.
- Determine and Calculate Damages — Estimating the full amount of your loss after an accident can be difficult. Our experienced lawyers will provide an estimated amount for all your losses, including medical bills, wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies — The at-fault party usually pays for damages through their insurance company. Having a personal injury attorney on your side can help you understand the at-fault party’s automobile insurance policy. Our attorneys can advocate for your rights on your behalf and negotiate a fair settlement that reflects the value of your damages.
- File a Lawsuit — If negotiations fail and the insurance company refuses to settle fairly, our accident attorneys will file a lawsuit as a last resort and represent you in court. Using expert testimony and evidence, we will present a well-supported claim on your behalf.
We take cases involving minors very seriously, and they are near and dear to our hearts. As a society we must place the highest value on our children and their safety!– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Hire Our Accident Attorneys To Represent You?
Arash Law has a team of accident attorneys who will represent you in negotiations or litigation. Here are the reasons to hire us as your legal representative:
- Skills and Experience — We have years of experience helping injured victims pursue a claim for their injuries and losses against negligent parties.
- Comprehensive Case Management — Arash Law offers comprehensive legal assistance, allowing you to focus on your rehabilitation while we handle legal matters. We’ll collect proof, correspond with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights in court if needed.
- Negotiate a Settlement — Insurers can be tough negotiators, often scrutinizing evidence to verify claims. Our team can deal with these challenges and pursue a settlement on your behalf.
- No Upfront Legal Fees — Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay us lawyer fees unless we obtain compensation for your case. This agreement aims to help injured victims have access to legal representation without worrying about upfront costs. However, certain case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome. During your consultation, our attorneys will discuss our fee structure and address your billing concerns.
- Personalized Service — We understand that every case is unique. We tailor our services to your specific circumstances so that we can help you make informed decisions related to your case.
Different Types Of Accidents In Kern County
Our lawyers at our Kern County injury firm can represent clients who suffered injuries in the following types of accidents:
Automobile Accidents
Car accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injury in Kern County. Approximately 3,400 individuals died in car accidents in California in 2015, while roughly 250,000 people suffered personal injuries. In 2023, there were 3,930 traffic accidents in Kern County, which resulted in 175 fatalities and 5,841 injuries.
The type of car accident can affect the kinds of injuries suffered by drivers and passengers.
The most common automobile accidents that occur in Kern County include:
- Underride Accidents — These accidents happen when a compact automobile strikes a tractor-trailer and slides beneath the trailer.
- Sideswipe Accidents — A sideswipe accident occurs when the side of a vehicle scrapes the side of another.
- Rear-End Collisions — These accidents often occur when a distracted driver collides with a vehicle from behind.
- Rollover Accidents — Large trucks and SUVs are more likely to roll over and cause serious injuries to drivers and passengers.
- T-Bone Accidents — One car collides directly into the side of another vehicle in these accidents.
- Head-on Collisions — Two vehicles strike each other head-on during these accidents.
An individual’s negligent or reckless conduct typically causes traffic collisions. Some of the negligent acts that cause accidents include:
- Speeding.
- Fatigued driving or sleeping while driving.
- Aggressive driving.
- Neglecting to keep an automobile in good working order.
- Distracted driving.
- Faulty vehicle repairs.
- Defective vehicle manufacturing.
- Not following traffic laws or signals.
- Intoxicated driving.
Our Kern County car accident attorneys can assist if you sustain injuries caused by another person’s negligence. Through a personal injury claim or lawsuit, you can pursue compensation for your damages.
Truck Accidents
Accidents involving big rigs and other large vehicles are less common than car accidents, but the results are often catastrophic when they do happen. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 494,000 police-reported truck collisions occurred in 2021. Of these, 5,149 (1%) resulted in fatalities, and 110,000 (22%) caused injuries.
These figures show how devastating collisions involving these massive vehicles could be. If you’re injured in one, our truck accident lawyers in Kern can help you gather evidence to prove liability and seek accountability for your damages.
Pedestrian Accidents
Some people walk to work, while others do so for relaxation, exercise, or social interaction. It’s reasonable to expect safety along sidewalks or when crossing the road. However, that’s not always the case. In 2023, 49 pedestrian fatalities were reported in Kern County. Over the last five years, the county has seen an average of 48.6 pedestrian deaths every year.
Depending on the circumstances, the driver’s insurance company and potentially their employer may be responsible for covering your medical expenses, lost wages, and damages related to pain and suffering. An accident attorney in Kern County can help you explore your options for compensation.
Bicycle Accidents
With heavy traffic and parking problems, bicycling has become a popular mode of transportation in the United States. As bicycle traffic has increased, most cities have created dedicated bike lanes. However, many motorists tend to disregard bike lanes and cyclists’ rights, which inevitably leads to an increasing number of bicycle accidents.
If you or a loved one is injured in a bicycle accident, our Kern County accident lawyers can help you determine the extent of your damages. Once we do, we can support you in seeking compensation that may be available for your case.
Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable to severe injuries when they crash because of their lack of protection, the speed at which they can accelerate, and other drivers’ lack of attention. In 2021 alone, 271 motorcycle riders were injured and killed in Kern County.
Motorcyclists could be unfairly scrutinized during motorcycle accident claims. At-fault drivers may assert that riders are partially responsible for accidents. These accusations may limit their options for potential compensation. Our accident attorneys focusing on motorcycle crashes in Kern County can advocate for injured riders in such cases.
Bus Accidents
Bus drivers are responsible for keeping their passengers safe while traveling from one place to another. However, since the passengers are not wearing seat belts, they could easily suffer serious injuries if a bus tips over, rolls, or is slammed suddenly.
You may file a bus accident claim or lawsuit if you suffered injuries in an accident caused by a negligent bus driver or company.
Workplace Accidents
Personal injury claims relating to workplace accidents are also common. Poor equipment, hazardous working conditions, and inadequate training are the most frequent reasons employees get injured. Construction work, nursing assistance, driving big commercial vehicles, and labor jobs are among high-risk occupations.
California’s workers’ compensation system provides coverage for employees who get injured or ill at work due to their job-related duties. Injured employees do not need to prove that their employer was negligent or at fault to be qualified for benefits. Although the system is designed to streamline the compensation process, it does have limitations. For instance, workers typically do not get coverage for their pain and suffering.
Generally, you can only seek workers’ compensation benefits if you get injured while on the clock. However, you may still be able to bring a personal injury claim against one or more third parties, such as a property owner, contractor, or negligent driver, depending on the facts of your case. You may also file a personal injury claim against your employer in certain cases (e.g., you’re injured by a defective product at work, or your employer intentionally put you in danger). Establishing liability can be challenging in these instances. Kern County accident lawyers can assist victims in this process.
Construction Accidents
Despite significant safety improvements, construction accidents still occur at a high rate. The work environment remains dangerous even with stringent rules to make construction sites safe for workers and visitors. In addition, the nature of work is physically demanding and exhausting, which increases the risk of accidents.
You can seek help from our Kern County personal injury lawyers if you have been injured on a construction site or while doing construction work. We will gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate on your behalf in court if necessary.
Slip-And-Fall Accidents
Slip-and-fall accidents can happen anywhere — from restaurants and grocery stores to sidewalks and parking lots. While many might think these accidents are a minor inconvenience, they can result in serious injuries. Slips and falls are among the common causes of hip fractures and brain injuries. Tripping and falling can injure the back, neck, legs, arms, and shoulders.
Property owners must maintain safe premises, respond to hazards within a reasonable time, and adequately warn visitors of potential dangers. To pursue compensation in a slip and fall accident claim, you must establish that the property owner breached these duties and is, therefore, responsible for your accident. During the negotiation with insurance companies, the insurer will investigate your case and determine whether the property owner is liable for compensating you. Our Kern County accident attorneys can advocate for your interests during this process.
Product Liability
Most manufacturing processes must adhere to strict quality and safety standards. Responsible and competent manufacturers invest time and money to ensure their products’ safety. They provide clear instructions and warnings. If a manufacturer chooses to cut corners and produce unsafe products, they should be held responsible for any harm and losses their products cause. Product liability claims may be filed against the negligent party when this happens.
Auto Defects
Our Kern County accident attorneys have handled cases involving defective brakes, seat belts, seat backs, tires, airbags, and many other automotive components.
If an auto defect causes an accident, the following parties may be liable for the damages the victims sustained:
- The car or car part designer, if there’s an issue with the product design.
- The vehicle or auto part manufacturer, if the defect occurred during manufacturing.
- The shipper or carrier transporting the vehicle or its parts, if they damaged the product while it’s in their custody.
- A car dealer, if they failed to inspect (or repair, if needed) the old or new car they’re selling.
- A mechanic, if they failed to identify and address a defect.
- The driver, if they knew about the defect and failed to address it within a reasonable time.
If you’ve suffered an injury due to a vehicle defect, our Kern County accident attorneys can help. We will gather evidence and consult with experts to identify who’s potentially liable for your losses.
Rideshare Accident
Injured in an Uber accident or a Lyft accident? If you’ve been a victim of a collision involving these rideshare services, you may be able to seek damages through a rideshare accident claim.
A rideshare collision is often more complicated than your typical motor vehicle accident. Apart from the auto insurance policy of the rideshare driver or another at-fault motorist, Uber and Lyft may provide coverage to compensate you, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Our Kern County accident lawyers can help you navigate the complex web of insurance policies and regulations that apply to these cases.
Dog Bites
California has a large number of animal attacks occurring every year. Victims of dog bites often suffer severe injuries, including lacerations, fractured bones, and contusions. Injured victims may need stitches for lacerations. Also, surgery may be necessary to repair tendons and other injured body areas. Dog bites that get infected can prolong the healing period.
Some dog bite victims may need to undergo extensive physical therapy. Psychological suffering and emotional trauma may also be claimed as damages in dog bite cases. If a child or young adult suffers a dog bite, it can affect their perception of domesticated and undomesticated animals for a long time. Our Kern County accident attorneys focusing on dog bite cases can provide information about your legal rights and assist you in filing a claim.
Premises Liability
If you got injured on someone else’s property — such as a mall, swimming pool, gas station, restaurant, or a neighbor’s home — you might have grounds for a premises liability claim. If the property owner’s negligence has injured you, our team can gather crucial evidence to establish liability.
Wrongful Death
Many victims of negligence are tragically killed at the scene of an accident or succumb to their injuries in hospital rooms. Section 377.60 of the California Code of Civil Procedure permits a decedent’s surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim to pursue justice and compensation for their losses. Only specific individuals are allowed to claim wrongful death in California, including the spouse, the victim’s biological children, fully adopted children, or stepchildren, and, if the children are minors, a court-appointed guardian.
The family only has two years from the date of their loved one’s death to file a wrongful death claim. If they fail to do so within the statute of limitations, their claim may be forever barred. They cannot collect financial compensation for expenses related to the deceased’s medical and funeral expenses. Our Kern County accident attorneys can help you handle the legal legwork and file claims on your behalf.
Common Injuries Resulting From Accidents In Kern County
It is important for anyone who has suffered injuries during an accident to know that they may be able to seek financial compensation for their damages. Traffic collisions involving trucks, construction accidents, and falls from great heights often result in catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and fractured bones.
While the types of injuries suffered by the victims are sometimes unique to the accident they were involved in, some injuries are common across virtually all types of accidents. Here are some of them:
- Emotional trauma
- Damaged nerve endings
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Contusions
- Severe lacerations
- Amputations
- Fractured bones
- Third-degree burns
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Wrongful deaths
Some of these injuries may not produce noticeable symptoms shortly after the incident, while minor ones may intensify over subsequent weeks and months. For the safety of your well-being, seek medical treatment promptly. A documentary record of your injuries soon after the accident can help substantiate your claims.
Injured victims could be forced to pay out-of-pocket for their medical treatment. Some of the common procedures include surgeries, CAT scans, and X-rays. Diagnostic tests are also necessary and expensive. Moreover, patients may have to undergo physical therapy. Most of them have to spend time in the hospital recovering from the most severe injuries.
Medical expenses can cause serious financial problems and even bankruptcy. Often, the injured victim cannot work due to their injuries. These lost wages can be claimed as damages in an insurance claim or civil lawsuit. Speaking with our personal injury attorneys can help you understand what you can do to preserve evidence and seek a fair payout that reflects your damages. Our Kern County accident attorneys can assist you in filing an accident claim and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
Hurt in an Accident?
Recovering Damages For Your Injuries In Kern County
Under the law, individuals who suffer injuries due to someone else’s negligence may pursue financial compensation for their economic and non-economic damages.
Compensatory Damages For Economic Losses
A personal injury claim may cover economic damages, which include, but are not limited to, the following:
Medical Expenses
You may be able to seek reimbursement for the medical bills you incurred to treat your accident injuries.
Examples of medical expenses for a personal injury include:
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications.
- Bills from doctors, hospitals, and other medical providers.
- Emergency room and ambulance bills.
- Surgery and therapy costs.
- Supplies and equipment for medical care.
- Adaptive equipment for mobility.
- Costs associated with home healthcare.
- Nurses who provide long-term care.
Depending on how long your personal injury claim will take to settle, your health insurance company may be able to cover some of these costs for you. If your impairment becomes permanent, you may also be able to pursue compensation for ongoing care and future medical expenses. However, you may have to reimburse the health insurance company through your claim.
Loss Of Income
If you cannot return to work during your recovery, you can seek reimbursement for lost income, including your salary, hourly wages, commissions, bonuses, overtime, tips, and retirement contributions. If you suffer a permanent impairment that impedes your ability to work, you may be able to include lost wages in the future in your claim.
Out-Of-Pocket Expenses
This category covers all reasonable and necessary out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to the accident. For example, you may be unable to perform certain tasks, such as mowing your lawn or cleaning your house. As a result, you may need to include the cost of hiring help to do these chores.
Compensatory Damages For Non-Economic Losses
This category of damages represents the pain and suffering you experience after an accident. Non-economic losses include:
- Mental anguish and trauma.
- Physical pain and discomfort.
- Permanent disabilities and impairments.
- Scarring and disfigurement.
- Emotional distress and suffering.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Mental anguish and trauma.
- A decrease in your overall quality of life.
The value of non-economic damages can be challenging to calculate. Unlike economic damages, there is no receipt, bill, or invoice telling you how much the damages are worth. Your Kern County accident attorney will document all your losses to help you pursue the appropriate compensation.
Non-Compensatory Damages In A Personal Injury Case
Punitive or exemplary damages are awarded in rare cases where the defendant’s conduct is found to be especially harmful, malicious, or egregious. They are also intended to serve as a deterrent to prevent similar behavior in the future. These damages are granted in addition to compensatory damages to address the severity of the defendant’s actions.
How Your Kern County Accident Attorney Will Establish Negligence
These four core elements of negligence must be proven to establish liability:
- The responsible party had a duty to act with reasonable care.
- The responsible party breached this duty of care by failing to act reasonably.
- The responsible party’s breach directly caused the accident and the resulting injuries.
- The victim suffered damages (losses) because of the accident.
Our accident attorneys can help injured victims in Kern County demonstrate each element of negligence. Those who can prove these elements have a valid claim for their injuries. In certain cases, an injured victim does not have to prove each element of negligence.
Negligence per se is a form of strict liability where someone’s failure to follow a specific law results in harm to someone whom that law was meant to protect. The type of harm suffered by the injured victim must also be the harm the statute was designed to prevent. Under California Civil Code 3342, if a resident suffered a bite by a dog that belonged to another person while on private or public property, then the injured victim can seek damages from the dog owner.
California’s dog bite statute is an example of strict liability. Strict liability implies that the act itself proves fault. Simply doing the act establishes the actor’s liability. Many attorneys at our Kern County law firm have represented dog bite victims in California.
What Is Comparative Negligence, And How Does It Affect My Claim?
In personal injury cases in California, the principle of “pure comparative negligence” applies. This principle states that an injured plaintiff can pursue compensation in the amount of the total damages, less any percentage of fault. For instance, a person sustained injuries in a car accident. If the court found them 20% at fault, they may only be able to pursue 80% of their damages.
Our Kern County accident attorneys can advocate for a fair assessment of shared liability. Our accident attorneys can negotiate on your behalf in or out of court.
Who Is Liable For Your Injury After An Accident?
You and your Kern County accident lawyer can file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit if the accident in which you were injured was caused by someone’s negligence. However, the accident must first be investigated to determine who is responsible. This is not always easy. Multiple parties may share responsibility and be held accountable. Examples of this are:
- A reckless driver who caused a car accident.
- A dog owner who failed to stop their pet from causing harm to others.
- A business entity that breached its duty of care towards its customers.
- A negligent property owner who failed to maintain a safe environment for guests.
- An employer who owed their employees a duty of care.
- A manufacturer or designer who created unsafe products.
Identifying the negligent parties, filing a claim against their insurance, or suing them will be part of what your Kern County accident attorney will do for you. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to see how else we can help.
What Should I Do If I’m In An Accident In Kern County
After a serious accident, knowing the appropriate steps to take can help you protect your rights and strengthen any future claim or lawsuit you may need to file. Whenever you are involved in an accident, consider following these guidelines:
- Prioritize Safety — Move to a safe location if you can. Check yourself and the others involved for injuries. Call 911, especially for emergencies.
- Gather Information — Collect as much information as possible, including names, contact information, and insurance details. Also, note the accident location and time.
- Document the Scene — Take pictures and videos of the accident scene from various perspectives to determine any details that can be relevant to your claim.
- Talk to the Witnesses — If there are any witnesses, get their contact information. They may be able to provide a third-party account of the accident, which could be valuable in any legal proceedings.
- Report the Accident — Promptly inform your insurer about the incident. However, exercise caution when making statements, as they could affect your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention — Consult a healthcare professional even if you feel fine. Some injuries might not be evident immediately, but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Consult a Lawyer — Call Kern County accident attorneys after getting medical attention, especially if you sustained severe injuries or significant property damage.
Our eighteen-year-old client was severely injured while working at the Defendant’s farm and using the Defendant’s tractor and harvesting machinery. While our client was stationed on the machinery, the tractor drove into a hole in the ground and it caused the machinery to collapsed on him, crushing his legs. The Defendant refused to accept responsibility and we were forced to arbitrate the case to verdict, in which we won and secured an $18.7 Million award.– BRIAN BEECHER
Kern County Accident Statistics
UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) recorded the following traffic accident data in Kern County in 2023. There were 164 fatal crashes, resulting in 175 fatalities and 5,841 injuries. Traffic accidents also caused 47 pedestrian fatalities and 247 pedestrian injuries. In motorcycle accidents, 23 motorcyclists died, and 245 were injured. The county also recorded six fatalities and 126 injuries among cyclists.
Automobile Collision Statistics In Bakersfield
Approximately 3,200 motor vehicle accidents occurred in Bakersfield in 2017. There were also 53 fatalities and 1,300 severe injuries that same year. Nearly 50 percent of the motor vehicle collisions in Bakersfield caused painful injuries to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
| Type of Collision | Total Number of Collisions | Fatal Accidents | Accidents with Injuries | People Killed | People Injured | Severe Injuries | Other Visible Injuries | Injuries Causing Pain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two Cars Collide | 2,048 | 18 | 958 | 18 | 1,649 | 29 | 294 | 1,326 |
| Car in Motion Hits Parked Vehicle | 351 | 1 | 58 | 2 | 71 | 1 | 28 | 42 |
| Car Hits Pedestrian | 120 | 23 | 92 | 23 | 101 | 13 | 45 | 43 |
| Car Hits Bicycle | 88 | 2 | 81 | 2 | 81 | 7 | 37 | 37 |
| Car Hits Animal | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Car Hits Fixed Object | 515 | 5 | 121 | 5 | 145 | 8 | 58 | 79 |
| Car Hits Another Object | 51 | 1 | 7 | 1 | 9 | 0 | 2 | 7 |
| Collision with Motor Vehicle on Other Roadway | 19 | 1 | 10 | 1 | 15 | 0 | 3 | 12 |
| Non-Collision Accident | 63 | 2 | 40 | 2 | 45 | 6 | 24 | 15 |
| TOTAL | 3,259 | 53 | 1,368 | 54 | 2,117 | 64 | 492 | 1,561 |
Type of Collision
- Total Number of Collisions – 2,048
- Fatal Accidents – 18
- Accidents with Injuries – 958
- People Killed – 18
- People Injured – 1,649
- Severe Injuries – 29
- Other Visible Injuries – 294
- Injuries Causing Pain – 1,326
- Total Number of Collisions – 351
- Fatal Accidents – 1
- Accidents with Injuries – 58
- People Killed – 2
- People Injured – 71
- Severe Injuries – 1
- Other Visible Injuries – 28
- Injuries Causing Pain – 42
- Total Number of Collisions – 120
- Fatal Accidents – 23
- Accidents with Injuries – 92
- People Killed – 23
- People Injured – 101
- Severe Injuries – 13
- Other Visible Injuries – 45
- Injuries Causing Pain – 43
- Total Number of Collisions – 88
- Fatal Accidents – 2
- Accidents with Injuries – 81
- People Killed – 2
- People Injured – 81
- Severe Injuries – 7
- Other Visible Injuries – 37
- Injuries Causing Pain – 37
- Total Number of Collisions – 4
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 1
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 1
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 1
- Injuries Causing Pain – 0
- Total Number of Collisions – 515
- Fatal Accidents – 5
- Accidents with Injuries – 121
- People Killed – 5
- People Injured – 145
- Severe Injuries – 8
- Other Visible Injuries – 58
- Injuries Causing Pain – 79
- Total Number of Collisions – 51
- Fatal Accidents – 1
- Accidents with Injuries – 7
- People Killed – 1
- People Injured – 9
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 2
- Injuries Causing Pain – 7
- Total Number of Collisions – 19
- Fatal Accidents – 1
- Accidents with Injuries – 10
- People Killed – 1
- People Injured – 15
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 3
- Injuries Causing Pain – 12
- Total Number of Collisions – 19
- Fatal Accidents – 1
- Accidents with Injuries – 10
- People Killed – 1
- People Injured – 15
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 3
- Injuries Causing Pain – 12
- Total Number of Collisions – 3,259
- Fatal Accidents – 53
- Accidents with Injuries – 1,368
- People Killed – 54
- People Injured – 2,117
- Severe Injuries – 64
- Other Visible Injuries – 492
- Injuries Causing Pain – 1,561
According to the report from UC Berkeley’s TIMS, Bakersfield saw a staggering number of fatalities in various accidents from 2019 to 2023.
- Approximately 53 fatal traffic accidents occur every year in Bakersfield.
- There are around 22 pedestrian accident fatalities in the city annually.
- The city sees an average of 6 fatalities from motorcycle accidents per year.
- Every year, nine people die in speeding-related collisions.
Motor Vehicle Accidents In Bakersfield By Cause
Negligent drivers are the leading cause of motor vehicle collisions in Bakersfield.
| Primary Cause of Accident | Total Number of Collisions | Fatal Accidents | Accidents with Injuries | People Killed | People Injured | Severe Injuries | Other Visible Injuries | Injuries Causing Pain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding | 959 | 5 | 386 | 5 | 589 | 10 | 87 | 492 |
| Improper Turns | 720 | 7 | 174 | 7 | 238 | 5 | 70 | 163 |
| Alcohol / Drugs | 429 | 6 | 154 | 7 | 229 | 14 | 80 | 135 |
| Running Red Lights / Stop Signs | 320 | 4 | 242 | 4 | 432 | 9 | 80 | 343 |
| Vehicle Violating Right-of-Way | 292 | 6 | 207 | 6 | 389 | 9 | 93 | 287 |
| Car Hits Fixed Object | 515 | 5 | 121 | 5 | 145 | 8 | 58 | 79 |
| Unsafe Lane Changes | 142 | 0 | 36 | 0 | 48 | 0 | 7 | 41 |
| Pedestrian Violation / Violating Right-of-Way | 96 | 19 | 72 | 19 | 72 | 9 | 37 | 26 |
| Unsafe Starting or Backing | 95 | 0 | 13 | 0 | 15 | 0 | 0 | 15 |
| Wrong Side of the Road | 74 | 2 | 49 | 2 | 51 | 3 | 22 | 26 |
| Other Hazardous Violation | 47 | 1 | 13 | 1 | 24 | 2 | 7 | 15 |
| Cause Other than Driver / Victim | 31 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 3 | 3 |
| Improper Passing | 19 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Unknown Cause / Not Stated | 16 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 10 | 0 | 4 | 6 |
| Lights, Brakes, or Other Equipment | 12 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 9 | 2 | 1 | 6 |
| Following Too Closely | 4 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Hazardous Parking | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Impeding Traffic | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 3,259 | 53 | 1,368 | 54 | 2,117 | 64 | 492 | 1,561 |
Primary Cause of Accident
- Total Number of Collisions – 959
- Fatal Accidents – 5
- Accidents with Injuries – 386
- People Killed – 5
- People Injured – 589
- Severe Injuries – 10
- Other Visible Injuries – 87
- Injuries Causing Pain – 492
- Total Number of Collisions – 720
- Fatal Accidents – 7
- Accidents with Injuries – 174
- People Killed – 7
- People Injured – 238
- Severe Injuries – 5
- Other Visible Injuries – 70
- Injuries Causing Pain – 163
- Total Number of Collisions – 429
- Fatal Accidents – 6
- Accidents with Injuries – 154
- People Killed – 7
- People Injured – 229
- Severe Injuries – 14
- Other Visible Injuries – 80
- Injuries Causing Pain – 135
- Total Number of Collisions – 320
- Fatal Accidents – 4
- Accidents with Injuries – 242
- People Killed – 4
- People Injured – 432
- Severe Injuries – 9
- Other Visible Injuries – 80
- Injuries Causing Pain – 343
- Total Number of Collisions – 292
- Fatal Accidents – 6
- Accidents with Injuries – 207
- People Killed – 6
- People Injured – 389
- Severe Injuries – 9
- Other Visible Injuries – 93
- Injuries Causing Pain – 287
- Total Number of Collisions – 515
- Fatal Accidents – 5
- Accidents with Injuries – 121
- People Killed – 5
- People Injured – 145
- Severe Injuries – 8
- Other Visible Injuries – 58
- Injuries Causing Pain – 79
- Total Number of Collisions – 142
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 36
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 48
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 7
- Injuries Causing Pain – 41
- Total Number of Collisions – 96
- Fatal Accidents – 19
- Accidents with Injuries – 72
- People Killed – 19
- People Injured – 72
- Severe Injuries – 9
- Other Visible Injuries – 37
- Injuries Causing Pain – 26
- Total Number of Collisions – 95
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 13
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 15
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 0
- Injuries Causing Pain – 15
- Total Number of Collisions – 74
- Fatal Accidents – 2
- Accidents with Injuries – 49
- People Killed – 2
- People Injured – 51
- Severe Injuries – 3
- Other Visible Injuries – 22
- Injuries Causing Pain – 26
- Total Number of Collisions – 47
- Fatal Accidents – 1
- Accidents with Injuries – 13
- People Killed – 1
- People Injured – 24
- Severe Injuries – 2
- Other Visible Injuries – 7
- Injuries Causing Pain – 15
- Total Number of Collisions – 31
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 6
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 6
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 3
- Injuries Causing Pain – 3
- Total Number of Collisions – 19
- Fatal Accidents – 2
- Accidents with Injuries – 2
- People Killed – 2
- People Injured – 2
- Severe Injuries – 1
- Other Visible Injuries – 0
- Injuries Causing Pain – 1
- Total Number of Collisions – 16
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 7
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 10
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 4
- Injuries Causing Pain – 6
- Total Number of Collisions – 12
- Fatal Accidents – 1
- Accidents with Injuries – 4
- People Killed – 1
- People Injured – 9
- Severe Injuries – 2
- Other Visible Injuries – 1
- Injuries Causing Pain – 6
- Total Number of Collisions – 4
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 2
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 2
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 0
- Injuries Causing Pain – 2
- Total Number of Collisions – 2
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 0
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 0
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 0
- Injuries Causing Pain – 0
- Total Number of Collisions – 1
- Fatal Accidents – 0
- Accidents with Injuries – 1
- People Killed – 0
- People Injured – 1
- Severe Injuries – 0
- Other Visible Injuries – 1
- Injuries Causing Pain – 0
- Total Number of Collisions – 3,259
- Fatal Accidents – 53
- Accidents with Injuries – 1,368
- People Killed – 54
- People Injured – 2,117
- Severe Injuries – 64
- Other Visible Injuries – 492
- Injuries Causing Pain – 1,561
Negligent actions by a driver or pedestrian cause most automobile accidents in Bakersfield. Defective automobile equipment is also a major contributing factor.
One important point must be considered in light of the data listed above. In the first table, we noted approximately 350 motor vehicle collisions in which a motorist struck a parked vehicle. Yet the second table shows that negligent parking caused two motor vehicle collisions in Bakersfield. In most of these accidents, the motorist was most likely responsible for the incident.
Two individuals died in parked car accidents in Bakersfield. The statistics above demonstrate how important it is for all drivers to be cautious and alert when driving in parking lots or anywhere near parked vehicles. In 2017, around 3,300 fatal traffic accidents occurred in California. This made California the state with the second-highest number of fatal accidents in the United States for that year. Texas recorded the most fatal car accidents.
The population density in California accounts for the high number of deadly car accidents throughout the state. Most automobile accidents occur on Saturdays and Sundays. Also, more vehicle crashes occur in the evening than in the daytime.
The California Office of Traffic Safety reported an increase in the total number of fatalities caused by intoxicated drivers. From 2015 to 2016, the total number of these crashes rose from 911 to 1,059. In 2016, approximately one-and-a-half percent of motorists killed in accidents had legal or illegal drugs in their system at the time of the crash.
Alcohol-related traffic accidents have occurred in Bakersfield during the last three to four years. Each year, ten people die in the city from accidents involving drunk drivers, and 6 lose their lives due to drugged drivers. Our Kern County DUI accident victim attorneys are committed to advocating for those who have been injured or have lost a loved one in such tragic events.
The California Office of Traffic Safety noted that motorcycle accident deaths rose 11 percent in 2016, and fatalities caused by motorcyclists not wearing helmets rose 9 percent in 2016. In 2023, 530 riders across the state died in traffic accidents. In California, all motorcyclists must wear helmets while operating motorcycles. Distracted driving causes 80 percent of collisions, as documented by the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
Also, distracted drivers caused 65 percent of near-collisions. Distracted driving comes in many forms, but some of the most common include texting, eating, and applying makeup while driving. Distracted drivers do not look at the road and cause serious accidents that can cause serious bodily injury or death. California forbids drivers from using electronic gadgets while driving, yet drivers still text and drive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is It Worth Getting An Accident Lawyer?
Hiring a Kern County accident attorney can be beneficial because they can provide support, particularly in complicated cases. They can gather evidence and negotiate on your behalf.
Most of them also work on a contingency fee basis. That means you will not pay attorney fees if they don’t obtain compensation for you. Regardless of the result, some case expenses may still need to be paid. It is advisable to discuss this payment structure with your attorney before signing with them.
Should You Hire A Lawyer After An Accident?
If you sustained injuries in an accident in Kern County, having an accident lawyer to be your advocate can be beneficial, as they can evaluate your case thoroughly and guide you through all the complexities and issues. Our Kern County accident attorneys can help you file a claim against negligent parties and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
How Do I Find Accident Lawyers For My Claim?
A skilled and knowledgeable accident attorney can manage your case. Here are the factors you can consider when choosing a Kern County accident attorney:
- Experience — Consider hiring an attorney who has handled cases similar to yours. This way, they can provide the necessary legal support for your specific circumstances.
- Open Communication — You’ll work with your attorney for several months. Having a good rapport with them and their legal staff is crucial. You should be able to communicate with them easily and openly about your case. Schedule an initial consultation to determine if they’ll be a good fit.
- Positive Feedback From Previous Clients — Does the firm have dozens of positive reviews from past clients? That may indicate that they provide quality legal services.
How Much Is The Average Accident Settlement In California?
It’s hard to determine the average amount, as settlements in California widely vary and are often confidential. The value of an accident claim depends on various factors, such as the nature and severity of your injuries. It is recommended to discuss the details of your case with a Kern County accident attorney to determine your potential damages.
How Do You Calculate The Settlement Amount?
The settlement is based on the facts of each case. Both sides consider the type and severity of injury, emotional harm suffered, the cost of going to trial, and many other factors. Aside from the usual damages like medical bills and lost wages, they also consider intangible losses like pain and suffering and the injury’s impact on quality of life. Our accident attorneys in Kern County can help you assess your damages and determine the possible value of your case.
What Happens If The Accident Was Partly My Fault?
California is a pure comparative negligence state. If more than one party, including the injured victim, is liable for the accident, then each party should pay the assigned percentage of the damage they caused. This means you can claim damages even if you are found to be partly at fault for the accident that injured you. Even if you are 99% at fault, you can still seek damages for the 1% you are not.
For instance, the court may assign 60% of the blame to the liable party and 40% to you. In that case, you can only seek 60% of the total damages, not the entire amount. In such cases, our Kern County accident attorneys can advocate for a fair assessment of fault.
Do I Even Have A Case?
If you sustained injuries or someone you care about tragically died because of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you may have a case. You may have the right to pursue compensation to cover your damages and losses caused by the accident that was not your fault. However, it can be difficult to establish fault, so it is important to consult a Kern County accident lawyer to decide which course of action to take.
If you’re not sure if you have a valid claim, fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
Will I Have To Go To Trial?
In most cases, settlements are reached outside of court and before a trial can happen. Sometimes, going to court may be the only option because of the following:
- The defendant did not send a settlement offer.
- Settlement offers from the defendant are unreasonable or insufficient.
- The defendant wants to go to trial.
- There is a dispute over liability or damages.
Although jury trials in personal injury cases are unusual, our Kern County accident attorneys are prepared to take your case to court if needed and present a well-supported claim.
Where Can I Get A Copy Of The Police Report?
The Sheriff’s Office can provide you with a copy of the accident report upon receipt of an email or a written request. Your request should include the following information:
- The case number
- Accident date
- Parties involved in the dispute
- Requestor’s contact information
If you’re having difficulty getting a copy of the report, our accident attorneys in Kern County can request it on your behalf.
What Types Of Injuries Qualify Me For An Injury Claim?
Many people are injured every day in the United States because of accidents. The law allows victims to seek financial compensation for their injuries. This compensation can cover medical and rehabilitation costs, income loss, and other damages. Many people are unaware that an insurance claim or lawsuit can also compensate for emotional and psychological injuries.
We can help you determine if you have a valid case. Talk to one of our accident attorneys in Kern County if you’re considering filing a claim.
How Long Will A Lawsuit Take?
It depends on the specifics of your case. Factual and legal issues are two of the most important factors. Pursuing a significant amount can also lengthen your case. Your physical recovery is another factor that may prolong the timeline of your case. Your Kern County accident attorney may want to wait until you have fully recovered to accurately determine the value of your case. After considering these key factors, your lawyer can give you an estimated timeframe. However, unexpected issues may come up during the process that could impact the timeline.
What Should I Ask A Lawyer Before Deciding Who To Hire?
Before you hire a Kern County accident lawyer, here are some questions you may want to ask:
- Which area of law is your primary focus?
- Do you have experience handling cases similar to mine?
- Do you provide a free consultation?
- How much are your fees?
- Are you going to be my primary attorney?
- When and how will I receive updates about my case?
- Can you settle cases out of court, or do you often take them to trial?
- Is mediation or arbitration an option for me?
What Should I Know About Hiring A Lawyer In Kern County?
Before they can practice law in California, attorneys must pass the bar exam and gain admission to the State Bar of California. Most attorneys in California graduate from accredited law schools. In rare cases, individuals are permitted to take the bar exam in California after completing an apprenticeship with a licensed attorney. Once licensed, California lawyers may practice in almost any legal field. In particular, our Kern County accident attorneys focus on personal injury cases.
What Does An Accident Lawyer Do?
Accident attorneys help injured people by representing their interests when pursuing compensation. As your accident lawyers in Kern County, we’ll handle your case from start to finish — from investigation and negotiation to settlement or trial.
Some people make the mistake of dealing with an insurance company alone. Insurance providers are large corporations with extensive resources at their disposal. An accident lawyer can advocate for your rights when negotiating with these parties.
What Should I Bring When Meeting With An Attorney?
Our Kern County accident attorneys offer all our clients free, no-obligation initial consultations. Since our goal is to determine the viability of your case, it would greatly help if you brought key pieces of evidence, such as:
- Photographs or video recordings.
- Medical records and receipts.
- Police reports.
- Wage loss information.
- Other relevant documentation.
When Should I Call An Accident Attorney?
It is advisable to contact an accident lawyer shortly after you have suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence. No matter how severe or minor your injury is, an accident attorney can help you deal with your insurance company or the party at fault’s insurer. Your Kern County accident attorney will be your advocate when you decide to file a claim.
What Should I Expect During My Free Case Consultation?
During the consultation, our Kern County accident lawyers will ask many questions to fully understand your situation. We will inquire about the cause of the accident, your injuries, and your recovery process. Toward the end, we will determine if you have a viable case. Once we determine that you have a case, we will discuss the next steps with you. We’ll provide you with a list of the documents we’ll need to support your case.
Contact Our Accident Attorneys In Kern County
Seeking the advice of a personal injury attorney is an important step in pursuing a legal claim. The sooner a Kern County accident attorney at Arash Law assesses the facts of your case, the sooner they gather the evidence necessary to support your claim.
We have a team of experienced lawyers who can help you understand what options are available to you under the law. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 to learn more about our legal services.
We help accident victims throughout Kern County, including those in Bakersfield, Delano, Ridgecrest, Wasco, Shafter, Arvin, California City, McFarland, Tehachapi, and Taft. We also offer services in neighboring counties, including San Bernardino, Tulare, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles.
