Bakersfield, CA (September 15, 2023) Andrea Marie Fanning was killed in a collision on Highway 99 in Bakersfield, according to the California Highway Patrol. The accident happened around 5:17 a.m., south of Sherwood Avenue.
California Highway Patrol officers reported that 23-year-old Fanning came to a complete stop in the middle of Highway 99 for unknown reasons. She also didn’t have her headlights on while sitting in the dark on the highway.
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At the same time, a 43-year-old woman from Shafter was driving on Highway 99 and couldn’t see Fanning’s car in the dark. The woman crashed into Fanning’s 2014 Chevrolet going 65-70 mph. Both cars were forced off the road and onto a dirt shoulder.
Fanning, sadly, wasn’t wearing a seat belt and was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers are investigating if drugs and/or alcohol were a factor in this accident.
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 family of Andrea Marie Fanning. 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.
