[09-20-2020] Kern County, CA – One Man Dead After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Bakersfield

A 51-year-old man identified as Jack Christopher Shipley was killed after an SUV struck his motorcycle on Bakersfield on Sunday, September 20. The fatal collision took place in China Grade Loop just north of Alfred Harrell Highway at approximately 8:15 p.m.

[09-20-2020] Kern County, CA - One Man Dead After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident in BakersfieldAccording to the Kern County Sheriff’s Office reports, a Buick Enclave was initially heading southbound on China Grade Loop then stopped on the right shoulder. The Buick then pulled from the shoulder, went to the southbound lane, and veered into the victim’s Suzuki 600 motorcycle path.

The rider was then ejected from his motorcycle due to the severity of the impact. He sustained life-threatening injuries. The motorcyclist was later pronounced dead at the scene. The Buick driver did not sustain any injuries from the crash.

Fatal Motorcycle Crash Investigation is Underway

The California Highway Patrol is currently investigating the cause of the fatal crash. Motorcycle accidents can often lead to catastrophic and even devastating results.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s National Center for Statistics and Analysis, approximately 5,286 motorcyclists were killed in the U.S. in 2016 alone. Some of the common causes of motorcycle accidents are distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, bad weather, wrong-way driving, and failure to observe traffic laws.

Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to the dangers on the road than passengers of private cars as seatbelts or airbags do not protect them. To avoid sustaining life-threatening injuries and possibly death, motorcycle riders are encouraged to dress appropriately and wear a helmet every time they ride their motorcycle to prevent fatal injuries. Wearing helmets were estimated to be 37% effective in preventing motorcycle deaths.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Kern County Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal Motorcycle Accidents

While the investigation is on-going, the victim’s family is entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. Through the wrongful death claim, families can seek compensation for the damages (such as loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress) that the tragic incident has caused them.

The stress and sorrow following a loved one’s death due to an accident can be too overwhelming. Professional wrongful death attorneys can stay updated on the official investigation on behalf of the family while ensuring that their client’s legal rights and best interests are protected.

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If you believe you have grounds to file a claim, retain a local car accident attorney in California near you who can help you navigate car accident laws. Arash Law has decades of experience throughout California and has secured million-dollar settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our car accident team can investigate your crash, identify the potential defendant(s), and file your claim with the civil court system as quickly as possible. Don’t delay – you’re just a phone call away from learning your legal options. Call (888) 488-1391 or get in touch online to schedule a free case evaluation.

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