Bakersfield, CA (November 4, 2023) A fatal accident took 3 people’s lives on Friday, November 3rd, in Bakersfield. The crash occurred just outside of Lamont, according to the Bakersfield Police Department. The Highway Patrol confirmed that the incident was reported just before 6:00 a.m. in an area that has had numerous fatal collisions over the years.
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It happened at the intersection of Di Giorgio road and South Edison Road, just outside of Lamont. A red Jeep and a white Volkswagen collided, killing 3 people. Both vehicles came to a stop on the railroad tracks following the collision. The victims were described as a woman in her 50s, another woman who was believed to be in her 30s and a third woman in her 20s. Family members of the victims told the California Highway Patrol that the three women worked at Tasteful Selections and were on their way to work when the crash occurred.
Upon further investigation, authorities determined that the red Jeep ran a stop sign and struck the side of white Volkswagen, killing the 3 occupants inside, according to Sgt. Kent Kniffen, with the California Highway Patrol. They were all pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities had to close the road for 3 hours as they investigated the collision. Tow trucks were called to load and remove the damaged vehicles and a coroner was called to the scene as well.
Liability In Bakersfield Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Bakersfield Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of the three woman killed in this collision. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Bakersfield car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.