Pedestrians in Bakersfield face a dangerous journey when traveling across the city. Pedestrians can be forced to cross four and five lanes of traffic across poorly marked and poorly timed crosswalks all while dealing with the rush of traffic.
That trip can be all the more hazardous for anyone using a wheelchair. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study found that an average of 28 people in wheelchairs are tragically killed in pedestrian accidents every year in the U.S. Sadly, the study also revealed that California leads the nation in wheelchair pedestrian tragedies year after year.
A lack of attention by a careless or distracted driver can lead to a devastating crash involving a pedestrian, potentially leaving victims with life-threatening injuries.
Man in Wheelchair Struck by Truck in Bakersfield
A man was badly hurt after his wheelchair was struck by a pick-up truck Tuesday night in northern Bakersfield. KGET-TV reports the accident happened at the intersection of North Chester Avenue and Washington Avenue on April 13, 2021.
The California Highway Patrol says they arrived on the scene shortly after 8 p.m. to find the victim in the roadway with major injuries. The man had been using a wheelchair when he was struck by a truck. He was taken to a local hospital. His condition wasn’t reported.
The driver of the pick-up stayed at the scene to cooperate with the investigation. The cause of the crash hasn’t been released.
Finding Support for Wheelchair Accident Victims in Bakersfield
Wheelchair users can find themselves facing a long recovery after a terrible accident and can suffer unique health issues that require advanced medical care. Victims and their families will be very worried about finding proper medical treatment and finding a new wheelchair as soon as possible.
This care and new equipment will be expensive, but victims who have been struck by a careless motorist should never have to shoulder a penny of this financial burden. An at-fault driver and his or her car insurance coverage must be held accountable for these costs so bill collectors and creditors don’t unfairly target victims or their families.
In such a difficult situation, victims or a family member can file a claim for damages against an insurance provider. This civil claim can request support for all medical bills resulting from an accident as well as any medical equipment needed to restore independence and freedom to the victim as soon as possible. The wages a victim has lost while missing work with an injury should be included in any insurance settlement.
Contact a Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
After a traffic accident involving a serious injury, contact an experienced Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyer such as Martin Gasparian for a free and confidential consultation. Mr. Gasparian works closely with every injury victim he represents and makes sure they are provided
