Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
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Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Here For You When You Need Us Most
Even with safety measures in place, pedestrian accidents can still happen. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s carelessness while walking along the road, you can obtain fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Our Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys can help you get the justice you deserve. Call us now at (888) 488-1391 for immediate legal assistance.
Bakersfield’s popular spots, such as the Valley Plaza Mall and the Kern County Museum, draw many visitors and shoppers. The Valley Plaza Mall is a major shopping destination with various stores and dining options, making it a busy area for pedestrians and drivers alike. The Kern County Museum attracts those interested in local history and exhibits. These areas often see significant foot traffic and vehicle congestion. With so many people around these places, the streets can become crowded, raising the risk of accidents.
Being hit by a vehicle while walking can cause serious injuries that drastically change a person’s life. Dealing with these physical injuries can be emotionally and financially devastating. At Arash Law, we focus on getting you the medical care you need and the money you deserve for the harm caused by the accident. We will guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
What Can Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Do To Help?
Call our pedestrian accident lawyers if you are injured while walking in Bakersfield. They specialize in helping victims secure the compensation needed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial burdens. This way, you can focus on recovery and move forward with your life.
A pedestrian accident typically occurs when a car, bicycle, motorcycle, or other type of vehicle strikes a person who is walking. It can also involve slips and falls or accidents due to construction hazards on the road. Pedestrian accidents can happen on sidewalks, crosswalks, parking lots, or any area where people are allowed to walk.
The individuals considered as pedestrians are:
- Those who are walking, jogging, and running.
- Individuals using wheelchairs or mobility devices.
- People with strollers or carts.
- People on skateboards, roller skates, or scooters.
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 Should You Hire Our Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Attorneys?
Arash Law takes pedestrian accident cases seriously. Knowing that accidents can cause severe injuries, we want to help you get the compensation you deserve to cover your medical expenses. Our Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys will provide support and guidance to help you through this difficult time.
Here’s why our Bakersfield injury law firm stands out as the right choice for your case:
- Accessible Legal Representation — We want you to focus on your recovery, not legal fees. That’s why we don’t charge any upfront fees. If we take on your case, you will only pay us once we win compensation for you.
- Personal Attention — When you choose us, you will receive dedicated support throughout your case. Our lawyers take the time to understand your unique situation, answer your questions, and keep you informed at every step.
- Decades Of Experience — Our injury law firm’s deep knowledge and many decades of combined experience helping injured people will help us advocate effectively for you.
- Personalized Strategy — We tailor our approach to fit the unique details of your case, aiming to achieve the best outcome based on your needs and circumstances.
- Record Of Success—Many lawyers make big promises, but our proven record of success speaks for itself. We’ve recovered over $750 million in settlements and verdicts, proving our capability to secure significant compensation for our clients.
- Dedicated Support — Our personal injury lawyers are committed to providing comprehensive support from the initial consultation to the final resolution of your case. We will ensure you understand your options and feel confident about the decisions you make.
By choosing one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, you give yourself the best chance of winning your case. Let us put our experience to work for you. You’re not just another case number — you’re our priority.
How Can Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Help You Get Compensation?
Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Bakersfield will use their extensive experience, resources, and commitment to advocate and fight for your best interests.
Here’s how we can help:
- Our pedestrian accident attorneys offer continuous support and guidance, ensuring you feel informed and confident throughout the process. We are here to answer your questions and address your concerns.
- To help you secure maximum compensation, we meticulously document your injuries and related expenses. We use medical records, receipts, and other evidence to illustrate how the accident impacted your life.
- Our personal injury lawyers conduct a thorough investigation to determine who is responsible for your injuries. This includes collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing accident reports to build a strong case.
- We leverage a network of experts who can provide valuable insights into your case. This includes medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial analysts to help us strengthen your claim.
- Promptly filing an insurance claim is crucial to protecting your right to compensation. After thoroughly investigating and documenting your losses, we file the claim against the responsible parties and initiate settlement negotiations.
- Our pedestrian accident lawyers handle all negotiations with insurance companies to secure the highest possible settlement for you. We understand their tactics and are prepared to counter them effectively.
- If insurance companies refuse to offer a fair settlement, our skilled litigators are ready to take your case to court. We develop a robust legal strategy to fight for your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Usual Causes Of Bakersfield Pedestrian Accidents
In the past five years, Bakersfield has seen 237 pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries. Some of the common causes of these tragic incidents include:
Speeding
The faster a vehicle is traveling, the harder it is for a pedestrian to survive a crash, making speeding a significant risk factor. In Bakersfield, a street racing accident resulted in a multi-vehicle collision. Four people were injured when a white Camaro racing another car crashed into their stopped vehicles. The driver of the other car fled the scene.
Street racing and speeding are incredibly dangerous activities with devastating consequences. Speeding reduces the time drivers have to react to road hazards and stop to avoid accidents. Crashes at high speeds often result in catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in tragic accidents. Impairment affects a driver’s reaction time and judgment, making it harder to see and avoid pedestrians. Some accidents in Bakersfield that led to severe injuries or fatalities result from intoxicated or high drivers. Our car accident lawyers can help you prove that the driver was intoxicated at the time of your accident.
Distracted Driving
When drivers are distracted, they are less likely to notice pedestrians. Common distractions include talking or using a phone, eating, applying makeup, or adjusting vehicle controls. These distractions can cause drivers to miss walking or crossing pedestrians.
Drowsy Driving
According to a 1997 study cited by SleepFoundation.org, drivers who haven’t slept for more than 20 hours can perform as poorly as those driving with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08 percent. Drowsiness slows reaction times and impairs judgment, increasing the risk of pedestrian accidents.
Inclement Weather & Poor Road Conditions
Bad weather, such as rain or fog, and poorly maintained roads can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians and stop quickly. If drivers don’t adjust their speed for these conditions, they may accidentally hit pedestrians walking along or crossing the street.
Mechanical Defects
When a vehicle has mechanical issues, like brake failure or steering problems, it may be unable to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian. In these cases, the manufacturer of the defective part or vehicle may be held responsible.
Poor Road Design
Poor road design can significantly contribute to pedestrian accidents. Here are some common issues:
- If no sidewalks exist, pedestrians may be forced to walk on the road.
- Inadequate markings, improper placement, or lack of visibility can confuse pedestrians and drivers.
- Potholes, uneven surfaces, or obstructions can cause pedestrians to trip and fall.
- Poorly designed intersections with multiple lanes or confusing traffic signals can lead to accidents.
If you or someone you know has suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident due to any other factor, our skilled Bakersfield accident lawyers are here to help. We will work tirelessly to ensure you get the support and justice you deserve. Our team is committed to investigating every aspect of your case and securing the best possible outcome for you.
Common Injuries From Pedestrian Accidents In Bakersfield
Our Bakersfield lawyers have handled countless pedestrian accident cases and recovered compensation for victims who sustained the following injuries:
- Road Rash — Pedestrians sustain painful abrasions when they get dragged on the road.
- Head & Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — TBIs include concussions (mild brain injuries) and more severe ones that affect cognitive functions and require long-term recovery.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or full paralysis, affecting movement and sensation below the injury site.
- Internal Injuries — Injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys, and other internal organs can cause internal bleeding that may not be immediately visible.
- Burns — Pedestrians can sustain burns during an accident through contact with hot surfaces, such as a vehicle’s engine, exhaust system, or roadway friction. Chemical burns can also occur if hazardous materials are spilled during the accident.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — These injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Common examples include strains (overstretched muscles), sprains (stretched or torn ligaments), and contusions (bruises).
- Fractures & Broken Bones — A vehicle’s impact on pedestrians can cause bones to break. Commonly fractured bones are those in the arms, legs, hips, and pelvis.
- Psychological Issues — Pedestrian accidents can lead to significant mental issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Victims may experience ongoing stress, fear, or sadness as a result of the accident, affecting their daily lives and mental well-being.
If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a pedestrian accident, reach out to our experienced personal injury lawyers in Bakersfield. We’ll work relentlessly to make sure you get the medical care you need for your injuries and suffering.
How To Prove Liability In A Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Claim
- Duty Of Care — Drivers have a legal duty to drive safely and follow traffic laws, especially around areas with pedestrians. We will establish that the driver was responsible for maintaining this duty and guaranteeing your safety.
- Breach Of Duty — To prove negligence, our legal team will show that the driver failed to meet their duty. Whether they were speeding, running a red light, or ignoring pedestrian signals, we’ll gather evidence like witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports to demonstrate their breach of duty.
- Causation — It’s crucial to prove that the driver’s actions directly caused your injuries. We will connect the dots between the driver’s negligent behavior and the harm you suffered, establishing that their actions were the main reason for the accident and your injuries.
- Damages — Our skilled attorneys will document the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and other financial losses. We will also consider non-economic damages like pain and suffering, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve for the full impact of the accident.
What Compensation Can I Recover In A Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Economic Damages
These refer to the financial losses directly resulting from an accident, such as:
- Lost Wages — If your injuries caused you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn a living, you could seek compensation for the wages you’ve lost and any future earnings affected by the accident.
- Medical Costs — This includes all expenses related to medical care from the accident, such as emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments or rehabilitation.
- Property Damage — If personal items like clothing or electronics were damaged during the accident, you could be compensated for their repair or replacement.
- Loss Of Earning Capacity — If your injuries permanently limit your ability to work or advance in your career, you can seek compensation for the difference in earnings.
- Transportation Costs — Expenses for traveling to and from medical appointments, especially if you require specialized treatment far from home, can be included.
- Home Care & Modifications — If you need in-home care or modifications to your home, such as wheelchair ramps or other accessibility features, these costs are recoverable.
- Rehabilitation Services — This covers physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services necessary for your recovery.
Non-Economic Damages
These compensate for the intangible impacts of an accident, including:
- Pain & Suffering — These damages cover physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life resulting from the accident.
- Loss Of Quality Of Life — If your injuries have changed your daily life or significantly reduced your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed, you can seek damages for your diminished quality of life.
- Disfigurement & Scarring — If your injuries have caused permanent physical changes or scarring, you can receive compensation for the emotional and social impact of these changes.
- Loss Of Consortium — If the accident has strained your relationship with your spouse or family members, they may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship and support.
- Wrongful Death — Unfortunately, some accidents, especially those involving massive vehicles like trucks, can result in fatalities. The surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses and the loss of financial support.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the responsible party’s actions were intentional or particularly reckless, the court may award punitive damages to punish them and deter similar behavior.
Our Bakersfield attorneys help victims of pedestrian accidents calculate their damages to ensure they receive the maximum compensation they deserve. We thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to protect their rights and guide them through the legal process.
Challenges When Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Pedestrian Accident
Here are some typical issues you might encounter with insurers and how our pedestrian accident lawyers in Bakersfield can help:
- Proving Liability — Insurance companies often deny fault or try to shift blame onto you, making it challenging to prove who is responsible for the accident. Our Bakersfield attorneys will gather evidence like police reports, accident scene photos, and witness statements to establish the driver’s responsibility and strengthen your claim.
- Lowballing Settlement Offers — Insurers may offer a settlement much lower than what you need to cover your damages and losses. Our team will negotiate with the insurance company to make sure you receive a fair settlement that accurately reflects your injuries, expenses, and losses.
- Sharing Liability Issues — If multiple parties are involved, insurers might argue that you share some responsibility to reduce your payout. Our injury lawyers will provide evidence and argue for a fair allocation of liability, aiming to maximize your compensation.
- Disputing Medical Claims — Insurers will question the extent of your injuries or the need for certain medical treatments. Our skilled attorneys will work with medical professionals to validate your injuries and the necessity of your treatments, forcing the insurance company to acknowledge all your medical needs.
- Delaying The Claim Process — Insurance companies might delay your claim, causing frustration and financial stress. We expedite the claims process by pushing for timely responses and submitting all necessary documentation promptly.
Despite these insurance challenges, our experienced Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to navigating your pedestrian accident case with skill and dedication. We will efficiently handle every aspect of your claim, from gathering crucial evidence and negotiating with insurers to ensuring you receive fair compensation. Our goal is to alleviate your stress, fight for your rights, and win your case.
What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident In Bakersfield
Getting injured in a pedestrian accident can be traumatic. Knowing the right steps to take immediately after the incident can make a huge difference in your recovery and securing the compensation you’re entitled to.
Here are the simple steps you must follow to protect your health and legal rights.
- Check For Injuries — Check yourself to see if you have sustained any injuries. Call 911 if anyone’s injured. Also, make sure you are out of immediate danger and get to a safe location. Your health and safety should be your top priorities.
- Report The Accident — Contact Bakersfield law enforcement to file a police report. This will help document the details of the accident for your records and insurance purposes.
- Collect Evidence — Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage. This will help build a strong case for compensation.
- Get Contact Information — Obtain names, phone numbers, and insurance details from all the drivers involved. This information is crucial for filing claims and taking legal action.
- Seek Medical Attention — Go to the nearest hospital immediately. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not immediately show symptoms.
- Avoid Discussing Fault — Do not admit fault or make statements that could be used against you. Let the authorities and your attorney handle these aspects.
- Notify Your Insurance Company — Report the accident to your insurance provider. Provide them with the details of the accident and your injuries.
- Consult A Skilled Injury Attorney — Speak with the best Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys to understand your rights and get help with your case. Let us do all the legwork so you can focus on healing. We’ll ensure you receive fair compensation.
Our client suffered serious injuries after he was run over by a speeding vehicle. Aside from achieving a monumental financial recovery, our firm was able to secure the best medical care and treatment to ensure that he recovered from his injuries with the best medical team in the nation. We are happy to deliver closure and peace to a nice family.– BRIAN BEECHER
Statute Of Limitations For Pedestrian Accident Lawsuits
In California, if you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. The statute of limitations is the legal timeframe within which you need to take legal action to seek compensation. However, if your claim involves a government entity, the time limit is shortened to just six months.
Even though you have up to two years to take legal action, it’s crucial to get in touch with Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers as soon as possible. Prompt action enables our lawyers to begin investigating your case while the evidence is still fresh and can be collected more effectively.
Pedestrian accidents can lead to serious injuries and complicated legal battles. Arash Law is here to help you navigate the process and file a claim on time. By calling the pedestrian accident attorneys Bakersfield relies on, you give yourself the best chance for a successful outcome.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Here are the latest statistics on pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries:
- Over the past five years, Kern County has recorded 548 pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries, 237 of which happened in Bakersfield.
- According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) 2022 report estimated that 9,188 pedestrians died in various incidents, including traffic and non-traffic incidents. Non-traffic incidents occur on private property, such as driveways or parking lots.
- The latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that, in 2022, 7,522 pedestrians died in traffic crashes on public roads.
- A report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) found that 3,434 pedestrians were killed on U.S. roadways in the first half of 2022, based on preliminary data from State Highway Safety Offices.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, our Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process, fight for fair compensation, and guarantee your rights are protected. Contact us to discuss your case and get the support you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What If I'm Partially At Fault For The Pedestrian Accident?
Even if you’re partially at fault in a pedestrian accident, you can still seek compensation. While it’s uncommon for pedestrians to be blamed for these accidents, your pedestrian accident lawyer will guide you through the process if you are found to share some responsibility.
California follows a system called pure comparative negligence. This means if you are partially at fault, your compensation might be reduced based on the degree of your fault. For example, if you’re deemed 20% at fault, you may receive 80% of the total damages.
Being partially responsible doesn’t mean you’re left without options. Our Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers can help you get through this complicated situation and ensure you still receive fair compensation. We’ll work to present the strongest case possible, even if you share some of the blame.
How Much Does A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost?
While some attorneys charge by the hour, our lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means you don’t pay any fees upfront; you only owe us if we win your case and you receive compensation for your injuries.
Our contingency fee structure lets you focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees. We’re committed to working hard on your behalf, knowing that our payment depends on securing a successful outcome. This approach allows us to invest our best efforts in your case without any financial risk.
Our Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys are dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. We will handle your case’s legal aspects and work to achieve the best possible results.
How Do I Know If My Pedestrian Accident Case Needs To Go To Trial?
You may need to go to trial if your pedestrian accident claim cannot be settled through negotiations or the insurance company denies liability. Going to trial becomes necessary when there is a dispute over the extent of damages, the severity of your injuries, or who is at fault for the accident.
Before deciding to go to court, it’s crucial to evaluate several factors: the strength of your evidence, the insurance company’s offer, and your willingness to go through a potentially lengthy legal process. A trial can offer a fair resolution if negotiations fail, but it also involves more time and effort.
If your pedestrian accident claim proceeds to trial, our experienced Bakersfield attorneys will handle every step of the process. We will prepare your case thoroughly, gather and present evidence, and advocate for your rights to achieve the best possible outcome.
Can Undocumented Immigrants File A Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Yes, as an undocumented immigrant in Bakersfield, you can still file a personal injury claim for injuries suffered in a pedestrian accident. California law makes sure all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, have access to the legal system to pursue justice and compensation for injuries.
Additionally, if you are the next of kin of someone who was killed in a pedestrian accident, you have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Your immigration status, or that of the deceased, does not limit your ability to seek compensation for the loss of a loved one. The legal system protects all individuals seeking justice for wrongful deaths.
Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Bakersfield are experienced in handling cases involving undocumented immigrants and can guide you through the legal process. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Can You Assist Me With My Injury Claim If I Don’t Speak English?
If you don’t speak English, it won’t be an issue. We have translators available to assist you, whether over the phone or in person, for medical appointments, depositions, or hearings.
Our Bakersfield attorneys handling pedestrian accident cases will ensure language differences do not hinder your legal rights. Once we know your language needs, we will arrange for qualified translators to be involved at every step of your case. This ensures clear communication and helps us effectively advocate for your interests, regardless of your language.
Seek The Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Bakersfield Offers
Don’t risk your health and future by handling your legal battle alone. If you think, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” then reach out to our pedestrian accident lawyers in Bakersfield. Led by the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we will fight vigorously to protect your rights and secure a fair settlement. We also specialize in handling other accident cases, including car accidents, Uber accidents, truck crashes, Lyft accidents, and dog bites.
If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us right away at (888) 488-1391. Don’t wait to get the help you need — our team is ready to stand by your side.
We also extend our services to Arvin, Delano, Grapevine, Buttonwillow, Lost Hills, Maricopa, Mojave, Lebec, Taft, Weldon, Wasco, Shafter, Pond, Oildale, McKittrick, Spicer City, Rosamond, Ridgecrest, McFarland, Lamont, Ford City, and Inyokern.
