[12-17-2020] Kern County, CA – Motorcyclist Killed After a Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident in Bakersfield

An unidentified motorcyclist was killed after getting struck by a hit-and-run driver in South Bakersfield on Thursday night, December 17.

The deadly accident transpired at approximately 5:15 p.m. on Ming Avenue near El Toro Drive in Bakersfield. The motorcyclist was traveling westbound on Ming Avenue when a vehicle attempting to make a left turn struck him.

The driver of the vehicle did not stop to render aid and fled the scene. A second vehicle also traveling westbound hit the motorcyclist shortly after the first crash. The victim was pinned underneath the second vehicle. The second driver remained at the scene and cooperated with local authorities.

The first vehicle was suspected to be a black or silver 2003 – 2007 model Honda Accord while the driver was described as “juvenile.” They are actively pursuing the hit-and-run driver.

Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Investigation is Underway

Local authorities are currently investigating the case. Witnesses that can provide information about the hit-and-run driver’s whereabouts are urged to call the Police Department at (661) 327-7111.

Fleeing the scene after an accident is a crime in itself. Sadly, 11 percent of all crashes involve a hit-and-run driver. There are several reasons why hit-and-run drivers flee the scene. They might be intoxicated or impaired by drugs, face legal difficulties, be uninsured, or be illegal aliens.

Riding motorcycles is more dangerous than riding a private vehicle. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, motorcycle riders are 16 times more at risk of injury and 35 times more at risk of facing fatal crashes in comparison to a passenger of a private vehicle.

Some of the common factors why motorcycle accidents occur are distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, bad weather, wrong-way driving, and failure to observe traffic laws. All riders are required by law (in most states) to wear a helmet and are encouraged to dress appropriately when riding their motorcycles. It is proven that helmets are 37% effective in preventing motorcycle deaths.

When facing cases like this, it’s essential to have an experienced Kern County personal injury attorney specializing in hit-and-run accidents to conduct an independent investigation. During the investigation, attorneys need to consider and thoroughly examine all the possible contributing factors of a hit-and-run accident, such as road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Kern County Wrongful Death Claim for Victims of Fatal Hit-and-Run Accidents

It can be quite challenging to deal with injuries caused by hit-and-run accidents as it can disrupt all aspects of life, such as family, work, and finances.

Pending the official investigation results, the victims are entitled to pursue a personal injury claim with their attorney’s assistance. The victims can demand financial compensation for their medical expenses, lost earnings, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering through the personal injury claim.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for your spouse or family member’s death or injury, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego, and are happy to visit you. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a personal injury attorney in California.