[09-17-2023] Kern County, CA – Unidentified Pedestrian Fatally Struck by Vehicle in Bakersfield

A pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle in Bakersfield on Sunday morning, September 17, 2023.

Bakersfield Police Department said the collision was first reported at 2:38 a.m. in the 9500 block of Meacham Road.

According to the BPD,  they found a man in the roadway suffering major injuries upon arrival. He was transported to a local hospital, where he died.

Authorities preliminary investigation revealed an adult male driver was traveling west on Meacham Road when he struck the pedestrian who was also traveling west in the roadway.

Speed and alcohol are believed to have played a role in the collision, but it is unclear which party was impaired. The driver of the involved vehicle remained on the scene and cooperated with the investigation.

This investigation is ongoing.

Our Professional Drunk Driving Accident Victim Lawyers in Bakersfield, CA

Victims of accidents resulting from drunk or drugged drivers may seek compensation from insurance companies. Financial hardships, including lost income, medical expenses, and other issues, are often experienced by these individuals.

Our legal team handles cases involving DUI-related across California, including Bakersfield. Our primary mission is to offer steadfast support and vigorous representation for these victims. Drivers who operate vehicles while impaired present a significant hazard to fellow road users. Holding these responsible parties accountable for the harm they cause is crucial in ensuring justice and promoting road safety.

You can rely on our most trusted Bakersfield drunk driving accident victim lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to help you with the insurance claim or effectively represent you in court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $500 Million for California clients.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

10 Key Steps to Take After a DUI Accident

Getting involved in a DUI accident can be emotionally draining and challenging. As a result of such an incident, understanding your rights and prioritizing your well-being are crucial.

This section provides valuable information and advice on the essential steps following a DUI accident.

1. Ensure Safety: Prioritize safety for yourself and others involved. Move to a safe location, away from traffic or any immediate dangers.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Check yourself and others for injuries, and immediately seek medical attention for anyone who needs it. Even if injuries seem minor, getting a thorough medical evaluation is essential.
3. Report the Accident: Contact local law enforcement to report the DUI accident. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident.
4. Gather Information: Collect essential details about the accident, including the other driver’s contact information, insurance details, and license plate number. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses present at the scene.
5. Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and other relevant factors. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal purposes.
6. Refrain from Admissions or Statements: Avoid admitting fault or making any statements about the accident without consulting an attorney. Announcements made at the scene could be used against you later.
7. Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident, providing them with accurate and truthful information. Follow their instructions regarding filing a claim.
8. Consult our California Drunk Driving Accident Victim Lawyer: Seek legal advice from an experienced DUI accident lawyer specializing in personal injury cases. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you seek appropriate compensation for your damages.
9. Preserve Evidence: Keep copies of medical records, accident reports, insurance correspondence, and any other relevant documents related to the accident. These will be important for your case.
10. Follow Medical Treatment: Adhere to all prescribed medical treatments and attend follow-up appointments. Document your medical expenses and keep records of any lost wages or other financial losses resulting from the accident.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Fatal DUI Accident Statistics

Driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs, whether they are prescription medications, illicit substances, or marijuana, is regarded as a criminal offense and comes with significant legal and financial consequences.

Depending on the specific circumstances, individuals convicted of this offense for the first time may incur costs ranging up to $10,000, with estimates soaring as high as $13,500 in California. Alarming data from 2018 underscores the severity of the issue, revealing that 42% of drivers involved in fatal accidents had tested positive for drugs, and this percentage continues to climb annually.

The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and various stakeholders are joining forces to raise awareness regarding the perils associated with drug-impaired driving. Their collaborative efforts are aimed at mitigating these risks, reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries, and fostering safer road conditions throughout California.