[10-18-2020] Kern County, CA – One Person Dead After a Fatal Car Accident in Ridgecrest

A 72-year-old woman identified as Kyung Shim was killed after the vehicle she was riding in was struck by another car near Ridgecrest on Sunday afternoon, October 18.

The fatal collision took place on Highway 395 north of Ridgecrest at approximately 4:39 p.m. A Toyota Highlander, occupied by Shim, was traveling on Highway 395 when the driver made a left turn into a rest stop.

The Toyota Highlander mistook the stop sign for a four-way stop and continued to drive eastbound when a vehicle heading north hit the Highlander.

Shim sustained life-threatening injuries from the accident. She was immediately transported to an area hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

Drugs and alcohol were not determined as factors in the accident.

Fatal Car Accident Investigation is Underway

Local authorities are currently attempting to determine the cause and the circumstances that led to the official investigation’s fatal accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics, there were 3,304 fatal car accidents in California in 2017. Although head-on collisions only represent 2 percent of accidents, they account for 10 percent of fatalities on U.S. roadways. These accidents are caused by various reasons, such as distracted driving, drunk driving, and driver over-fatigue.

When facing cases like this, it’s vital to have an experienced Kern County wrongful death attorney conduct an independent investigation. Attorneys have the resources that can help them prove the negligence of the liable party. They can utilize their resources to re-interview important witnesses, review relevant surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain phone and texting records of the responsible party.

Both vehicles will be examined as part of the investigation. Investigators will attempt to determine which party is liable for the car crash or whether a third party or mechanical error caused the crash.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Kern County Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal Car Accidents

While waiting for the official investigation results, the victim is encouraged to pursue a personal injury claim with her attorney’s help. The liable party will be required by law to provide financial compensation for the victim’s medical expenses, lost earnings, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering.

Attorneys can serve as a compassionate, helpful legal guide during this difficult time for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights and best interests while ensuring that the liable party will be held accountable for their negligence. Attorneys can also negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to ensure they are compensated fairly.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for the death or injury of your spouse or family member, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure that you get 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 at your home or office. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.