Bakersfield is home to thousands of people who choose to travel by foot every single day. With so many places to work and sights to see, there are always places for pedestrians to visit. Though pedestrians have access to many walking trails and sidewalks, there are times when it is necessary for them to enter traffic to get to other destinations. Drivers are supposed to watch out for these vulnerable parties but, sometimes, pedestrian accidents still happen due to negligent reasons.
When a pedestrian accident occurs, the injuries are typically severe due to the fact that pedestrians have no protection from harm in a collision. These accidents are typically worsened when they involve hit-and-run drivers, as pedestrians may not receive the care that they need in until their injuries have worsened or, even more devastating, a life has been lost. It is crucial that families of pedestrians who have lost their lives in accidents understand their legal options moving forward with a claim.
Fatal Pedestrian Accident at Columbus Street Involving Hit-and-Run Driver in Bakersfield
On Wednesday night, a pedestrian’s life was taken in a fatal hit-and-run accident at a Bakersfield intersection. The accident, according to a KGET report, occurred around 9:29 p.m. at the intersection of Columbus Street and Rice Street on February 21, 2024.
When Bakersfield Police arrived on scene, they found that a driver was traveling near the intersection in a dark sedan when they suddenly struck a pedestrian. The pedestrian was walking across the street headed north at the time.
When police arrived, the 32-year-old pedestrian was already pronounced deceased. Nobody else sustained injuries in the accident.
Police stated that the driver of the sedan fled the scene of the accident before they arrived. They did not say if they found the responsible driver as of yet.
No further details have been released at this time. The investigation into the collision remains ongoing.
Financial Recovery for Families After Fatal Bakersfield Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are incredibly vulnerable parties on our roads, which means that accidents involving them are likely to lead to severe injuries or fatal results. If your loved one has lost their life in a fatal hit-and-run accident, you have rights to recovery.
There are several family members who can successfully bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one. These include the spouse of the deceased, children of the deceased, and even their parents. If there are no surviving parties as mentioned, the personal representative of the estate or another relative may be able to file a claim. Family members can gain financial support for some of the following damages:
- Medical expenses a loved one incurred before their passing
- Funeral and burial costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship and consortium
- Punitive damages
Though no amount of money can bring back a loved one’s life, it can help a family move forward financially when they are grieving.
Contact a Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you may be feeling confused and alone. Speaking with a Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyer at Maison Law can ensure that your rights are being protected during these challenging times. We will provide you with the resources that you need to successfully move forward with a pedestrian accident claim. Please contact us today for a totally free case consultation.
