Maison Law represents car accident victims across Bakersfield. As one of the most common types of accidents, these can leave you facing serious medical bills and other losses. The legal process can be complicated, especially if you’re driving with a suspended license at the time of the accident. But you still have legal rights, and we can help. Contact us today to set up a free consultation to learn more.
Who Can File a Car Accident Claim?
The good news, relatively, is that anyone who gets hurt in a car accident in Bakersfield can file a lawsuit or injury claim, even if their driver’s license was suspended at the time of the accident. However, that doesn’t save you from potential criminal penalties like fines or other punishments. At the same time, personal injury law in California is built around “negligence.” This means that when the car accident you’re involved in is someone else’s fault, you have the legal right to file an injury claim for damages.
A big part of the claim, though, is who exactly you’ll be filing against. In a typical car accident, this could be:
- Another driver
- A passenger
- A pedestrian or bicyclist
- The City of Bakersfield
- An employer (if the other driver was on the clock)
- A trucking company or truck driver
Most often, these car accidents happen when one of these parties does something they’re not supposed to do, or otherwise neglects their duty to keep you safe:
- Driving under the influence – When people drive after drinking or taking drugs, it makes accidents more likely.
- Distracted driving – When drivers aren’t fully focused on the road, like when they’re texting, accidents are more likely.
- Reckless driving – Some drivers do risky things, like speeding or weaving through traffic, which can cause accidents.
- Driving while drowsy – Tired drivers have slower reactions and may struggle to stay focused, increasing the chance of accidents.
- Not following road laws – Not obeying traffic rules, like speeding or running red lights, can lead to accidents.
There’s many different factors in a typical Bakersfield car accident. What’s important for you to understand, though, is that you can file an injury claim. However, it’s important to do a few things after the accident itself.
What You Should Do After a Car Accident
Facing a car accident is very difficult, especially if you get hurt. There’s a lot of moving parts, and the adrenaline is flowing. This means that it can be difficult to think clearly and protect yourself in these situations. At the same time, it’s extremely important to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. So, here’s what you should do in the aftermath of a car accident:
- Prioritize your safety – Make sure you and others are safe. Call an ambulance to get medical help. If you can, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid more accidents.
- Report the accident – Call the police to let them know about the accident, especially if someone is injured, there’s a lot of damage, or if people are not cooperating.
- Get medical care – Even if you feel okay, see a doctor. You should also ask for medical care at the scene. Some injuries might show up later, and seeing a doctor helps connect any injuries to the accident.
- Exchange information – Share your contact and insurance details with everyone involved in the accident.
- Document the scene – Take pictures or videos of the crash, including any damage to vehicles and important road signs.
- Tell your insurance – Tell your insurance company about the accident so they can help you with the next steps.
- Keep records – Save all your receipts and documents, like medical bills and messages from your insurance company, so you have a record of what happened.
Damages
In a car accident, the injuries and losses can vary for each person. However, the law recognizes common types of damages that you or other victims can claim. These typically include:
- Medical expenses and bills
- Lost income or earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Repair/replacement costs for your car or other damaged property
- Loss of companionship or reduced quality of life
- Wrongful death expenses
All of these things add up to a challenging process. That’s where our team of Bakersfield car accident lawyers can help you.
Experienced Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyers
If you’re in a car accident in Bakersfield and facing injuries or losses, you don’t need to handle it alone. Contact Maison Law’s experienced car accident lawyers. We’re committed to helping you get the financial support you need according to California law. Contact us now for a free consultation to explore your legal choices.
