[09-07-2020] Kern County, CA – Pedestrian Accident in Bakersfield Kills One

A 67-year-old man identified as Ricky Ricardo Tappin was killed after getting struck by a vehicle in Bakersfield on Monday evening, September 7.

According to the local authorities’ initial reports, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred at around 7:48 p.m. on Union Avenue near East 5th Street. The pedestrian was said to be on the center divider of the road in the 500 block of Union Avenue when he was suddenly struck by a vehicle.

The driver lost control of her vehicle, causing her to hit the pedestrian before crashing into a building. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Drugs and alcohol were not considered as factors in the collision. But authorities are investigating whether the driver’s speed may have played a role.

Fatal Pedestrian Crash Investigation is Underway

The Bakersfield Police Department is currently investigating the cause of the fatal crash.

Every day, pedestrians face dangers and uncertainties on the roadway. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, in 2018, approximately 6,227 pedestrians were killed in the U.S., which was a 250 increase from the previous year. Pedestrians currently make up a large percentage of traffic fatalities in the past 33 years. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. have increased by 27 percent from 2007-2016 while other traffic-related deaths decreased by 14 percent.

When facing cases like this, it’s imperative to have an experienced Bakersfield accident attorney specializing in fatal pedestrian accidents to conduct an independent investigation. Attorneys have the resources to interview essential witnesses, review related surveillance footage from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party. All possible contributing factors, such as road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting, must be considered and thoroughly examined during the independent investigation.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Wrongful Death Claim for Victims of Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Kern County

The stress and sorrow the victim’s family will feel after suddenly losing a loved one due to a fatal pedestrian accident can be quite overwhelming and stressful. While waiting for the official investigation results, the victim’s family is encouraged to pursue a wrongful death claim with their attorney’s assistance. Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek compensation for the damages (such as loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress) that the accident has caused them.

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 that they are compensated fairly.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for your spouse or family member’s death, 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. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.