Bakersfield motorists struck by drunk drivers will want to collect evidence to definitively show who was at fault. That evidence may also help prove that the driver was under the influence.
If victims feel up to it, they can gather photographic evidence at the scene and collect contact information that may help when it comes time to file an insurance claim.
Maison Law also offers a free case consultation to all injured victims. It’s a no-risk way to determine who should be paying for things like an ER visit and the victim’s lost paychecks while they can’t work.
The Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver
If you are struck by someone you suspect has been drinking, you’ll want to take the right steps to bring that person to justice. You’ll also want to set yourself up with enough evidence to file a strong car insurance claim.
You should always start by assessing the scene and the people involved. Call 911, and if anyone is hurt, request an ambulance.
When talking to the responding officer: Give the Bakersfield Police Officer (or the CHP officer) who responds a full account of what you observed leading up to the accident. (e.g., the driver was swerving, you saw beer bottles in the other driver’s car, you smelled alcohol on the other driver’s breath)
Then, if you are feeling up to it and the scene is secure, try to complete these steps:
- Take lots of photos. Show the damage to vehicles. Take photos of the debris and any skid marks on the road. Take photos of any visible injuries you have.
- Get witness contact information and note what they observed.
- Get the driver’s license and car insurance information if the officer doesn’t provide it to you.
- Alert your own car insurance company to the accident, even if you weren’t at fault.
- See your own physician, even if you’ve been to the ER. Get your injuries documented and any new pain checked out. Follow the doctor’s instructions about getting physical therapy and seeing specialists.
- Contact a Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer if you have serious injuries.
An experienced lawyer would build your case with evidence you collected and evidence they gathered. That might include witness testimony, expert testimony, and data from an accident reconstruction team.
It can all prove critical if a driver denies being intoxicated, or an insurer tries to downplay your injuries and offer you less.
Drunk Driving Accident Dangers in Bakersfield
A driver who has had a few drinks can make a normal nighttime drive on a road like Columbus Street into a risky proposition.
Drunk drivers can swerve all over the lanes and sometimes be easy to spot and avoid. But they can also take other drivers by surprise.
They may be so intoxicated they don’t realize they are off course. Their judgment is so blurred they don’t even have the awareness to hit their brakes. That can mean collisions occur at full speed, making them even more devastating.
These aren’t occasional threats in our city. According to California’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS), Bakersfield recorded 1,435 accidents involving injuries, and 29 tragic deaths in 2025.
Accidents involving alcohol totaled 220 serious collisions, which equates to around 15% of all accidents. There were 13 heartbreaking deaths in alcohol related accidents, which made up a shocking 44% of all Bakersfield fatalities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to wait to file a claim until drunk driving charges are resolved?
No. Your insurance claim is separate from the criminal DUI charges and hearings. You can file a claim and win support, even if the suspect still hasn’t been convicted, or if a trial is ongoing. Victims can file an injury claim at any time.
How long do I have to file an injury claim after being struck by a drunk driver?
In California, injured personal injury victims have up to two years to file an injury claim.
What if I can’t afford to pay a Bakersfield car accident attorney?
You don’t need any money to hire Maison Law. We don’t get paid unless we win your case for you. Then, our lawyer’s fee comes out of a settlement check the car insurance company must write.
Contact a Bakersfield Car Accident Attorney
Maison Law offers a free case review if you were seriously injured by a drunk driver. We can help accident victims across Kern County.
We want to stand by you through this difficult time and make sure you get what you need to fully rebuild your life.
