Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been involved in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, contact our experienced Bakersfield car accident attorneys.

At Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer, our dedicated legal team effectively manages the complexities of proving liability, dealing with difficult insurance companies, and negotiating for the full extent of damages for clients regarding their car accident cases.

Our personal injury law firm has a proven track record of securing maximum compensation for our clients by recovering losses that are often overlooked or undervalued, such as the emotional trauma and physical suffering experienced following an auto accident.

Discover how our dedicated legal team can help you overcome the legal challenges that most personal injury cases present by contacting our law offices at (661) 490-9440 and scheduling a free consultation today. 

Table of Contents

What Are Car Accident Damages?
Who Can Be Found at Fault in a Bakersfield Car Accident Case?
How To Prove Car Accident Liability
How Long Do I Have to File a Bakersfield Car Accident Claim?
What Injured Drivers and Passengers Must Do After a Car Accident

What Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer Can Do for You

Our experienced car accident lawyers offer a free and confidential case evaluation and operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs, and clients pay no legal fees unless we secure a win.

When investing in our award-winning legal services, you can expect the following benefits from our California car accident lawyers.

Thorough Claim Assessment for Maximum Compensation

Proper legal representation prepares clients for the claims proceedings and potential outcomes through a detailed assessment. This determines the validity of a claim by examining photographic and video evidence of the incident, conducting interviews with witnesses, and reviewing medical records and treatment from the medical professionals who treated you.

The information an experienced car accident lawyer can compile will clarify how much the car accident claim is worth, help build a strong legal claim, and prove why the other party is responsible for compensation.

Relief from Insurance Company Tactics

During the claims process, when insurance adjusters investigate the accident, they often employ deceptive tactics to minimize payouts to injured drivers and other personal injury victims, further complicating legal proceedings. One common tactic is to quickly obtain recorded statements from victims before they have had a chance to consult with a Bakersfield personal injury lawyer, ultimately compromising their ability to recover compensation.

These conversations can be more harmful than they appear, as the information shared may be misconstrued and used against the victim in their auto accident case. Our personal injury attorneys speak on behalf of our clients, preventing insurance adjusters from engaging in deceptive practices.

Refuting Unfair Settlement Offers

Experienced personal injury lawyers can manage settlement negotiations, ensuring clients receive only fair and full settlement offers. This prevents the other driver’s insurance company from taking advantage of injured victims who may be unaware of their rights, especially in a weakened state.

While most personal injury cases are settled to avoid the cost and uncertainty of going to trial, some may require mediation, arbitration, or further legal action. Our car accident attorneys in Bakersfield are equipped to handle all legal proceedings to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.

Trial-Ready Representation

Car accident lawsuits are complex due to specialized court procedures and strategic considerations regarding witness testimony, cross-examination, and legal arguments. While most personal injury cases settle, our Bakersfield car accident lawyers are also prepared to litigate.

If a fair resolution cannot be reached during negotiations, our Bakersfield personal injury attorneys will gladly file a lawsuit in Kern County Superior Court and take the case to trial to obtain fair compensation.

What Are Car Accident Damages?

In the aftermath of a car crash, the incurred “damages,” or losses suffered by the victim, can be categorized into economic and non-economic damages.

Depending on the severity of the car crash and overall losses, car accident victims may be entitled to recover compensatory damages for the following:

• Current medical expenses
• Diminished earning capacity
• Future medical costs
• Loss in companionship/consortium
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle repairs or replacement
• Wrongful death claim compensation

In some personal injury cases, expert testimony from psychologists, psychiatrists, and other medical professionals may be necessary to establish the extent of damages, especially for non-economic losses, to justify the amount claimed. An experienced personal injury lawyer utilizes these professional resources to strengthen their clients’ cases.

Economic Damages

These account for monetary losses that can typically be calculated and are evident through receipts, bills, or other invoices. These losses typically include the costs associated with repairing or replacing the damaged vehicle, immediate medical expenses for injuries sustained, lost wages due to the inability to work, and property damage.

Non-Economic Damages

These do not possess a monetary value and account for other ways an accident impacts a victim’s quality of life and emotional well-being. This may include pain and suffering, emotional trauma, loss of consortium, and disfigurement. These damages can be determined by considering the severity and duration of the injury’s long-term effects on the victim.

Punitive Damages

Also known as exemplary damages, these are awarded under rare circumstances to punish the at-fault party for egregious acts, such as hit-and-run accidents. Punitive damages are not intended to provide additional compensation but rather to further penalize the negligent party and discourage similar behavior in the future.

A personal injury lawyer’s guidance is crucial in helping accident victims navigate legal challenges and secure fair compensation, especially when insurance companies aggressively seek to minimize claim values.

Who Can Be Found at Fault in a Bakersfield Car Accident?

In auto accident cases, responsibility for damages can be assigned to any party exhibiting negligent behavior, which may include:

Other Drivers

Drivers who exhibit any of the following reckless driving behaviors:

• Distracted driving by texting, talking on the phone, and interacting with passengers
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Driving while drowsy or tired
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Running a stop sign or red light
• Speeding

Employers and Vehicle Owners

If the at-fault driver was operating a company vehicle or using their personal vehicle for work when the collision occurred, such as an Uber or Lyft driver, the employer may be held liable for the accident.

Vehicle owners can also share liability if they knowingly allow an unsafe or unlicensed driver to operate their car. In most personal injury cases, employers are responsible for the actions of their employees within the scope of their employment.

Government Entities

If the accident was caused by a poorly maintained road, faulty traffic signals, or a negligent government employee, the responsible government agency, such as the City of Bakersfield, Kern County, or Caltrans, could be liable because it is responsible for maintaining safe roadways.

When the Injured Party Is Also at Fault

Under California laws, claimants can recover partial damages even if they are partially responsible for causing their own injuries, as the state follows a pure comparative negligence system.

If the injured party is found partially responsible for the accident, compensation will be reduced by the percentage of assigned fault. For example, if the claimant was speeding and found 20% at fault when another driver ran a red light and collided with the vehicle, 80% of the compensation may still be awarded.

When both parties share fault, it is crucial to seek quality legal representation from a knowledgeable personal injury law firm. In such cases, insurance companies often attempt to shift a significant portion of the blame onto the plaintiff.

Without proper legal representation from the best Bakersfield car accident lawyers, the victim may be unfairly assigned the majority of fault, or their claim may even be completely denied.

Proving Who Is at Fault in a Car Accident Case in Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield sees a high volume of traffic accidents due to heavy congestion on major roadways. Highway 99, Highway 58, Ming Ave., Rosedale Hwy., Truxtun Ave., Panama Ln., and intersections along Chester Ave. and California Ave. regularly experience collisions involving Bakersfield residents.

You can sue for negligence in a car accident. This involves determining who is legally responsible for the resulting damages and injuries. To establish negligence in a car accident case, the following four legal standards must be met:

1. The defendant owed the plaintiff (injured party) a duty of care
2. The defendant breached that duty of care through careless behavior
3. The breach of duty caused the automobile accident
4. The automobile accident resulted in damages to the plaintiff

When working with a Bakersfield car accident lawyer from Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer, our car accident attorneys gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to prove the legal standards of negligence and hold the at-fault party liable for damages.

Common Types of Bakersfield Car Accident Cases We Specialize In

Motor vehicle accidents often result from driver negligence, and even when fault is clear, the other party’s insurance company will still challenge liability.

Our experienced Bakersfield car accident lawyers will investigate the cause of the accident and seek damages from the at-fault party on behalf of injured drivers and passengers alike. Common California personal injury cases involving vehicle collisions include:

Rear-End Collision

Rear-end collisions typically occur when a driver follows too closely behind another vehicle and is unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. This is commonly referred to as tailgating, and it is a frequent cause of crashes on congested stretches of Highway 99.

T-Bone Accident

A side-impact collision, also known as a T-bone accident, occurs when the front or rear of one vehicle strikes the side of another. These types of accidents, which frequently result in severe injuries, are common at signal-controlled intersections along California Ave and Chester Ave.

Sideswipe Accidents

A sideswipe accident occurs when one car’s side collides with the side of another while driving in the same direction. Drivers commonly cause these accidents by neglecting to check their mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes.

Head-On Collisions

A head-on collision happens when two cars traveling in opposite directions collide into each other, front-first. These types of accidents, even at low speeds, can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

Rollover Accident

A rollover accident occurs when a vehicle flips or rolls over after being struck aggressively by another vehicle. This typically occurs when a larger truck or commercial vehicle hits a smaller passenger vehicle, and can happen on agricultural hauling routes throughout Kern County.

Hit-and-Run Accident

It is illegal for a driver who causes or is involved in a crash to leave the accident scene. This is called a hit-and-run, and it can result in a ticket or even criminal charges. Because this type of accident will require an in-depth investigation, it is crucial to report it to the police and consult with an attorney as soon as possible so that hit-and-run evidence can be compiled and preserved. 

Common Minor and Serious Injuries That Can Be Compensated in a Car Accident Case

Non-fatal car accidents can still result in severe injuries, often requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation, all of which can be compensated through a successful personal injury claim. Some of the most common car accident injuries included in these claims include, but are not limited to, the following:

Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) result from rapid skull movement, causing the brain to hit the skull’s inner surface. This can lead to bleeding, swelling, and bruising. TBIs necessitate immediate emergency room visits, extensive follow-up care, and potentially lifelong rehabilitation.

Broken Bones

Car accidents can cause severe leg and arm injuries, often needing extensive medical treatment. These injuries can significantly impair the quality of life and ability to work, and can cause lasting physical impairments if left untreated.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are among the most common outcomes of rear-end and side-impact collisions. These injuries do not always present symptoms immediately, which is why prompt evaluation by medical professionals is so important after any crash.

Burns and Cuts

Even minor car accidents cause permanent scarring throughout the body from scrapes, burns, and deep lacerations. Soft facial tissue is particularly vulnerable to cuts from flying debris, shattered window glass, and personal items in the vehicle.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Car accidents commonly cause spinal cord injuries, which can result in temporary or permanent paralysis. These injuries frequently involve ruptured or herniated spinal disks, typically caused by impacts to the back or spine.

Internal Injuries

Internal organ damage to the liver, spleen, or kidneys is common in high-impact collisions and is not always immediately apparent. These injuries require prompt diagnosis and can involve extended hospitalization and mounting medical bills.

Mental Trauma

Car accident victims may experience emotional trauma, such as PTSD, in addition to physical injuries. This mental distress can cause severe hardship and may necessitate consistent treatment from a qualified mental health professional.

Wrongful Death

A wrongful death claim can be filed by surviving family members when a person dies as a result of another’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions. This applies to car accidents where a death occurs either immediately at the scene or later due to severe injuries. The family can pursue compensation for various losses, including financial support, funeral costs, and emotional trauma.

Serious injuries drive the value of a personal injury claim because they often require long-term care, multiple surgeries, and ongoing rehabilitation. The more severe the harm, the greater the economic and human toll, and the more critical it becomes to document everything from the start. Working with a Bakersfield car accident attorney ensures a fair claims process, so victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Statute of Limitations for Bakersfield Car Accident Claims

California law imposes strict deadlines to file personal injury lawsuits. Missing the filing deadline can result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation, regardless of how strong the car accident case is or how severe the injuries sustained are. The standard filing window includes:

• Two years for most personal injury claims. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, a plaintiff generally has two years from the date of injury to take legal action against another party.
• Six months for government claims. If the crash involved a government vehicle, dangerous road conditions, or malfunctioning traffic signals, California Government Code § 911.2 requires a written claim to be filed within six months of the incident.

To ensure you are in line with state laws and the statute of limitations, contact our Bakersfield personal injury law firm right away.

What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Enough Insurance?

California requires drivers to carry the minimum liability insurance, but many drivers throughout Bakersfield and Kern County carry only the state minimum or drive without any coverage at all.

When the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, injured drivers can often utilize their own insurance if they possess the following policies:

• Uninsured motorist coverage – when the at-fault driver has no liability insurance
• Underinsured motorist coverage – when the at-fault driver’s policy limits do not provide enough coverage for the full extent of damages

Insurance adjusters still try to limit these payouts, even when you’re filing against your own policy. Our firm negotiates aggressively on behalf of personal injury victims to make sure every available source of coverage is pursued.

How Do I Know if I Have a Valid California Personal Injury Claim?

After a car accident, it can be challenging to determine whether or not a claim is valid, especially when the other party’s insurance company is disputing liability. To pursue compensation, it must typically be proven that the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence and resulted in damages.

• The other party’s negligence caused the car accident: Negligence encompasses various reckless actions that led to a personal injury accident. This may include drunk driving, distracted driving, reckless driving, or even vehicle malfunctions due to faulty maintenance.
• Damages resulting from the car accident: The accident must have caused compensable damages, such as a sustained injury. These damages can further impact a victim’s life, leading to physical pain, emotional trauma, lost income, and mounting medical bills.

Not sure if your car accident claim is valid? Our Bakersfield car accident attorneys can deal with the other driver’s insurance company so you can focus on your recovery.

What Injured Drivers and Passengers Must Do After a Car Accident

If you’re involved in a Bakersfield car accident, it’s essential to take the following steps to protect your well-being and legal rights.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and well-being by seeking emergency room visits or urgent care following a car accident, even if your injuries appear minor. Prompt medical evaluation ensures proper diagnosis and treatment, and creates a vital record of your injuries linking them directly to the accident.
2. Call 911: File a police report with the Bakersfield Police Department, CHP, or the Kern County Sheriff’s Office. This documentation is an impartial record of the accident, documenting key details such as the date, time, location, parties involved, and contributing factors.
3. Document the Accident Scene: Take photos and videos of the involved vehicles, focusing on damage, tire skid marks, and other relevant details, displaying the aftermath of the crash. Document visible injuries, traffic signals, road conditions, weather, and anything else that may have contributed to the accident.
4. Consult a Bakersfield Car Accident Attorney: Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer provides professional guidance and support throughout the legal process. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and provide representation in court if necessary.

Undergoing the car accident claims process can be overwhelming, especially while dealing with injuries and emotional distress. A skilled personal injury attorney will fight to protect your rights and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Speak with a Bakersfield Personal Injury Lawyer Today

In the aftermath of a personal injury accident, you will face a lot of challenging decisions. Selecting a results-driven personal injury law firm does not have to be one of them.

At Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer, we resolve complex civil matters and deal with difficult insurance companies to get personal injury victims throughout Bakersfield and Kern County the maximum compensation they are entitled to. If you’ve been injured in an accident, Jeff’s got you.

Other Personal Injury Law Services Our Law Firm Handles

Our award-winning personal injury law firm specializes in the following practice areas:

• Bakersfield Bicycle Accidents
• Bakersfield Dog Bite Accidents
• Bakersfield Motorcycle Accidents
• Bakersfield Pedestrian Accidents
• Bakersfield Personal Injury Accidents
• Bakersfield Pedestrian Accidents
• Bakersfield Slip and Fall Accidents
• Bakersfield Truck Accidents
• Bakersfield Lyft and Uber Accidents
• Bakersfield Workers’ Compensation Claims
• Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawsuits

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Law Offices

Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can ensure an accurate evaluation of your personal injury claims, including proving damages like lost wages and medical expenses. Schedule your free case evaluation today, with no upfront costs and no obligation.

Address: 1527 19th St, Suite 312, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone Number: (661) 490-9440

Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer’s Other Locations

Our car accident attorneys are ready to discuss your auto accident case and help you seek compensation for your injuries and other losses. Schedule a free consultation at one of our Southern California or Northern California offices today.

• Corona
• Fontana
• Fresno
• Hesperia
• Monterey Park
• Rancho Cucamonga
• San Jose
• Santa Ana
• Tustin
• Van Nuys
• Victorville
• Visalia