Bakersfield, CA (December 14, 2023) 28-year-old Jose Guadalupe De La Paz was killed on Tuesday, December 12th, after crashing into a Bakersfield Shell station. According to the California Highway Patrol, the accident occurred at a roundabout on Weedpatch Highway and E. Bear Mountain Boulevard just after 10:00 p.m.
Multiple 911 calls came in about a vehicle crashing into a Shell gas station. Initial investigation determined that De La Paz was driving a Honda, heading east on E. Bear Mountain Boulevard at a high rate of speed. Just west of Weedpatch Highway, he swerved off the road and crashed into a raised concrete curb, according to the California Highway Patrol. De La Paz’s Honda continued through the roundabout until it hit a metal column at the Shell gas station.
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De La Paz was traveling at such a high speed that the impact of the crash split his Honda in two. He was thrown from the vehicle and suffered life-threatening injuries, according to authorities.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene and found De La Paz already deceased. He was, unfortunately, pronounced dead at the scene by officials. The Honda had to be removed from the scene and investigators searched for evidence. They are still investigating to determine whether drugs or alcohol were a factor in this fatal collision.
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 Jose Guadalupe De La Paz during this time of mourning. 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 (866) 945-4286.