Our Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You

A car accident, whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a severe head-on collision, can have enduring and profound effects on your life. Beyond the obvious physical injuries and vehicle damage, there are often subtle yet significant psychological consequences. Amidst dealing with injuries and car repairs, the daunting questions persist: 

  • How will I cover the costs of repairing my car?
  • If I need rehabilitation, who will foot the bill?
  • Will the other driver’s insurance blame me for the accident?
  • Who is truly at fault, and how can I prove my innocence? 

At Pacific Attorney Group, our team of Bakersfield car accident lawyers comprehends these complex physical, mental, and practical challenges. We possess the expertise to negotiate with insurance companies and, when necessary, litigate claims in court. You don’t have to navigate the aftermath of a car accident alone.

Reach out to a Bakersfield car accident lawyer from Pacific Attorney Group today for the assistance you need. 

 

Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer
car accident

Accident Prone Intersections in Bakersfield

According to SafeTREC’s Transportation Injury Mapping System data, 4,469 crashes occurred in Bakersfield from 2019 to 2021. These collisions killed 132 people and injured 6,726 others. Most of these accidents happened at busy intersections surrounded by busy commercial buildings with a significant number of vehicles and pedestrians. As per the data, unsafe speed, DUI, and violating the Right of Way were the three top factors contributing to these accidents.

The following intersections in Bakersfield are among areas in the city where traffic collisions are likely to happen more often.

  • California Avenue at Baker Street
  • California Avenue at Business Center Drive
  • Union Avenue at California Avenue
  • Stockdale Highway at Village Lane
  • 4th Street at Union Avenue
  • Columbus Street at Mount Vernon Avenue
  • Golden State Avenue at F Street
  • H Street at Brundage Lane
  • Stockdale Highway at Calloway Drive
  • H Street at Planz Road

      According to Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report of 2019, Bakersfield was ranked as the 82nd safest driving city in the US. The report gives an in-depth examination of insurance company claims data to determine the likelihood that drivers in America’s 200 most populous cities will experience a vehicle collision compared to the national average. While the average driver in the U.S. will experience a collision once every 10.57 years, drivers in Bakersfield were likely to get into a car accident at least once in 9.4 years.

      Common Causes of Bakersfield Car Accidents

      Car accidents can be triggered by various factors, ranging from mechanical failures to malfunctioning self-driving cars. However, the majority of automobile crashes stem from a few key causes: 

      • Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of Alcohol and Drugs
      • Distracted Driving
      • Reckless Driving
      • Driving While Fatigued
      • Failure to Obey Traffic Signals
      • Tailgating

      These common factors contribute significantly to road accidents, emphasizing the importance of responsible and attentive driving to ensure road safety. 

      What are the Types of Car Accident Injuries?

      There are several injuries you can sustain in an auto accident. These include:

      • Brain damage: You may have sustained a brain injury, which can have long-term effects and even cause death. Any traumatic brain injury suffered needs to be reported and treated immediately.
      • Neck injuries: Your neck may have been injured and could cause problems moving your head and other related injuries.
      • Spinal cord injuries: You may have suffered a severe spinal cord injury that can cause permanent paralysis or loss of control over body movements in your neck, arms, and legs.
      • Lower back injuries: Your back may have been injured, causing pain and damage to your spine.
      • Arm injuries: Your arms may be injured, especially if you’re unable to move them as freely normally.
      • Leg injuries: You may be unable to walk after an accident due to leg injuries sustained.
      • Headaches: You might experience a severe headache after an accident that causes a lot of pain. These need medical attention right away so that they don’t worsen or cause permanent damage to your brain or skull bones.
      • Psychological trauma: If you’re left with severe injuries after an accident, you might experience a lot of mental trauma that affects your daily life and well-being.

      Why Should You Hire a Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer After a Car Crash?

      Pacific Attorney Group is a Bakersfield car accident law firm dedicated to helping accident victims get the compensation they deserve. For over 14 years, we’ve worked with countless accident victims who have suffered severe injuries, ensuring we’ve always had their best interests at heart.

      Our Bakersfield car accident lawyers will do everything to help you get the total amount you’re entitled to so that you can start putting things back together. It includes medical bills and necessary expenses for your ongoing recovery. Should there be any special damages, our experienced firm will be here to help ensure your claim gets fully paid.

      How Much to Expect from a Car Accident Settlement in Bakersfield, California?

      An average car accident settlement in California is anywhere between $19,000 to $21,000. A car accident settlement amount depends on a lot of factors. If you’ve been injured in an accident, Bakersfield car accident lawyers are available to help you maximize your settlement amount as per the prevailing laws of the state. A car accident claim consists of four categories:

      1. Medical expenses: This category refers to the documented medical expenses you’ve already paid. You can also include the future medical expenses you’ll need to pay during your lifetime. It includes doctor visits, surgeries, and other expenses related to chronic disease.
      2. Lost wages: If you’ve lost wages because of the accident, this is included in your claim. An experienced Bakersfield car accident lawyer will provide you with all necessary documentation to support these damages and any other losses related to the accident, such as pain and suffering.
      3. Pain and suffering: You may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering & emotional distress that resulted from the car accident. It is a subjective analysis which means that it’s up for interpretation by a Bakersfield car accident lawyer. You can also include the loss of your ability to participate in your hobbies, such as the ability to play golf again or participate in sports activities.
      4. Punitive damages: If the other driver was reckless before the accident, you could pursue punitive damages. Determination will depend on whether or not the irresponsible behavior of the other driver resulted in your accident. Therefore, you need to prove that the other driver was reckless. It could include texting while driving, speeding, or drinking and driving.

      What to Do After a Car Accident 

      Here are essential actions to take after a car accident:

      • Call 911 immediately to get emergency medical services.
      • Check on your passengers and others involved, providing assistance if possible.
      • Move your vehicle to the side of the road, but do not leave the scene.
      • Even if you feel fine, get a thorough medical evaluation to detect hidden injuries.
      • Exchange contact and insurance details with other drivers without admitting fault.
      • Obtain a copy of the police report.
      • Collect contact information from witnesses.
      • Gather evidence: take photos and document skid marks at the accident site.
      • Report the incident to your insurance company without admitting fault.
      • Maintain detailed records of medical treatments and your emotional/physical state post-accident.
      • Consult a car accident lawyer before accepting any insurance settlement.

      Our Bakersfield car accident attorneys are here to assist you at every stage of the process, ensuring you navigate the aftermath effectively.

      What Types of Compensation Can I Receive for Car Accident Injuries?

      Compensation for car accident injuries typically falls into two main categories: 

      • Economic Damages: These payments cover expenses related to repairing your vehicle or treating your injuries. This includes bills from auto repair shops, medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages if you’re unable to work during your recovery. 
      • Noneconomic Damages: These payments are meant to compensate you for intangible losses, such as pain and suffering experienced after the accident. They encompass emotional distress, loss of companionship (like in a marriage), diminished sexual intimacy, and the overall impact on your quality of life. 

      In rare cases, punitive damages might be awarded by a jury. These damages serve to penalize defendants who displayed extreme negligence and a blatant disregard for the safety of others.

      DOs and DON’Ts After a Car Accident 

      DO: 

      • Stay Calm: Keep a clear head and try to remain as calm as possible.
      • Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries, and seek medical help if needed.
      • Call for Help: Dial emergency services (911) to report the accident and seek medical assistance.
      • Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further accidents.
      • Exchange Information: Share names, addresses, insurance details, and license plate numbers with other parties involved.
      • Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident, including vehicle damage, license plates, and the overall scene.
      • Collect Witness Information: If there are witnesses, gather their names and contact details.
      • Report the Accident: Notify the police and obtain a copy of the accident report.
      • Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible.
      • Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, consult a healthcare professional to assess your condition. 

      DON’T: 

      • Admit Fault: Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be seen as an admission of guilt.
      • Sign Anything: Refrain from signing any documents or agreements without consulting an attorney.
      • Discuss the Accident with Others: Limit discussions about the accident, especially on social media.
      • Accept Early Settlements: Avoid accepting quick settlement offers from insurance companies without legal advice.
      • Forget to Document: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
      • Leave the Scene: Stay at the accident scene until it’s appropriate to leave, as leaving could have legal consequences.
      • Skip Legal Consultation: If the accident involves significant damage or injuries, consult with an experienced attorney to understand your rights and options.

      Trust Our Skilled Bakersfield Car Accident Attorneys 

      Experiencing a car accident can profoundly disrupt your life, especially when dealing with physical and emotional injuries while managing financial concerns. Seeking fair compensation from the responsible driver’s insurance company can be overwhelming. This is where a dedicated personal injury lawyer becomes essential, providing unwavering support throughout the entire journey. 

      At Pacific Attorney Group, we stand out as Bakersfield’s leading car accident law firm because we are deeply committed to our clients’ well-being and strive to secure the best possible settlements for them. Insurance companies employ various tactics to minimize payouts, but our experienced team understands these strategies and knows precisely how to counter them.

      We’ve encountered diverse situations, from clients with inadequate offers to insurers attempting to wear down clients through endless delays. Regardless of your circumstances, our Bakersfield car accident attorneys are here to guide you through the settlement process, even if it requires taking your case to court. You can count on us to fight for your rights and advocate for the compensation you rightfully deserve. 

      Contact our experienced Bakersfield car accident lawyers to get a FREE CONSULTATION today!