Top-rated Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
We are one of the best Bakersfield pedestrian accident law firms
Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian accidents are one of the most serious types of accidents. They can result in severe injuries, trauma, and mental troubles that may last a lifetime. If your suffering sounds similar, then you have our Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers by your side 24/7.
We know the difficulties you face in the wake of a pedestrian collision and the challenges you must be facing. You are not alone in this, and Goldberg & Loren are here for you. For 30+ years, we have defended clients like you in personal injury cases.
We are open now, located at 1701 Westwind Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93301.
Call us at (661) 669-8224 and book a free pedestrian accident consultation with our attorney.
In Bakersfield in 2022, around 136 pedestrian fatalities occurred, out of which, 10 victims were of age 65 and older. [1]
Goldberg & Loren Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Fight for Maximum Compensation!
Pay Nothing, Unless We Win
Samuel Pope has extensive experience in pedestrian accident cases. His understanding of automobile accident law is unparalleled. Schedule your free consultation with Sam to get counsel and consider the legal options you have.
Our Verdicts and Settlements
Settlement
A pedestrian was struck by a distracted driver while crossing at Ming Avenue and New Stine Road.
April 2025
Settlement
A woman hit in a marked crosswalk at California Avenue and Oak Street. The verdict held the at-fault driver liable for running a stop sign, resulting in permanent leg damage and emotional distress.
March 2024
What Is a Pedestrian Accident?
A pedestrian accident is when someone, who is not in a motor vehicle, is hit by one while walking on foot. These accidents usually occur when vehicles are speeding, out of control, or run over people who are crossing the roads/streets.
Pedestrian accidents can happen with various sorts of vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles, and even trucks/buses. The impact of a pedestrian accident can be devastating and usually results in serious or severe injuries. However, it depends on the speed and type of the vehicle.
Important Pedestrian Laws In Bakersfield
Pedestrians are protected by various laws in Bakersfield. These laws regulate the basics, like the freedom to walk, the duty of drivers and pedestrians to exercise due care, and to prevent pedestrians from walking outside of designated crosswalks, or on bike paths.
That being said, the most important pedestrian laws in Bakersfield are as follows:
Duty to Exercise Due Care: Pedestrians are required to yield right-of-way to vehicles outside of marked or unmarked crosswalks. At the same time, drivers are also required to exercise their due care for pedestrian safety. California Vehicle Code Section 21954
Freedom to Walk Act: This law allows pedestrians to legally cross streets outside of designated crosswalks. Therefore, if it is safe to jaywalk, then a pedestrian can do it, given that there are no vehicles in close proximity. Assembly Bill 2147 (2023)
Pedestrians Not to Walk on Bike Paths: Pedestrians must not walk on bike paths or lanes. This is especially for areas where sidewalks or pedestrian facilities are available. California Vehicle Code Section 21966
Right-of-Way in Crosswalks: Drivers must yield right-of-way to pedestrians crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks. This means drivers must slow or stop to allow safe crossing of the pedestrians. Moreover, pedestrians should also not suddenly step into the oncoming traffic. California Vehicle Code Section 21950
Sidewalk and Roadway Use by Pedestrians: Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks where available. Vehicles are prohibited from stepping onto the sidewalks, unless entering/leaving a property. When there are no sidewalks available, pedestrians should walk close to the left edge of the road, facing oncoming traffic. California Vehicle Code Section 21952, 21663, 555
What Are The Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Bakersfield?
Pedestrian accidents are a product of various types of negligence or human error. The specific cause of a pedestrian collision can reveal the party at fault. In most cases, it is the driver at fault, but in some cases, other factors can lead to these accidents too.
Around 78% of the pedestrian accidents in Bakersfield happen during the night. [2]
The most common causes of pedestrian accidents are as follows:
Distracted Driving: Pedestrian accidents usually happen due to a driver’s error, and one of the most common ones is distracted driving. Drivers distracted by texting, calling, eating, or talking to other passengers can fail to notice approaching pedestrians, which can lead to accidents.
Failure to Yield: When drivers fail to yield the right of way, it can result in accidents. This can happen due to driver error, but other reasons, like blind spots or malfunctioning traffic lights, can also cause pedestrian accidents.
Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence tend to cause accidents of all kinds. Most pedestrian accidents occur due to drivers impaired by alcohol or recreational drugs. This impairs the judgement of the driver and increases the risk of hurting approaching pedestrians.
Inclement Weather: Another common cause behind pedestrian collisions with vehicles is inclement weather. When visibility is low and road conditions are slippery due to rain, storms, etc., it can lead to drivers hitting passersby.
Speeding: Driving above the required speed limit on any road can be dangerous. When drivers approach intersections or crossings, they are required to slow down or stop to let pedestrians pass. However, speeding drivers can find it difficult to stop at the right time, and they can end up hitting pedestrians.
If your pedestrian accident was under similar circumstances, then you might have a legal claim. Our Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers will examine the cause of your incident and establish the party at fault in your case. Then, we will take legal action together to seek compensation.
Common Injuries In Pedestrian Accidents In Bakersfield
Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries, as some can even prove fatal. A vehicle coming at even a moderate speed can result in severe injuries if it collides with a passerby. Moreover, the severity and nature of your injuries also determine the compensation you might be entitled to.
In pedestrian accident cases that we have handled, we found the following to be the most common injuries:
- Amputations
- Burn Injuries
- Catastrophic Injuries
- Fractures
- Head Injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Lacerations
- Neck Injuries
- Shoulder Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Whiplash
If you’ve experienced similar injuries, our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to securing compensation for you. We understand the profound effect these injuries can have on your life. That’s why our pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Table of Contents
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Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Attorney
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Our Verdicts and Settlements
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What Is a Pedestrian Accident?
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Important Pedestrian Laws In Bakersfield
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What Are The Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Bakersfield?
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Common Injuries In Pedestrian Accidents In Bakersfield
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Types of Compensation Available for a Pedestrian Accident in Bakersfield
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Who Is Commonly Liable for Pedestrian Accidents?
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How To Prove Negligence In Pedestrian Accidents
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What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Bakersfield
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Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in California
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Get a FREE Consultation From Our Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
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Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Resources
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FAQs
Types of Compensation Available for a Pedestrian Accident in Bakersfield
The compensation for a pedestrian accident usually depends on the accident type and severity. As mentioned before, the severity and impact of your injury are key factors that determine the compensation you get.
This means you might get the following economic and non-economic compensation:
Economic Damages:
- Cost of current, past, and future medical treatment
- Cost of physical or mental rehab
- Lost wages or inability to work due to injuries
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-Economic Damages:
- Emotional distress or mental anguish caused
- Loss of consortium or companionship
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
We know the impact a pedestrian accident can have on your life. That is why Goldberg & Loren do not stop fighting for fair compensation. Our hard-hitting pedestrian accident lawyers go all out to get you the maximum compensation you rightfully deserve.
Who Is Commonly Liable for Pedestrian Accidents?
The liability of a pedestrian accident usually falls on the driver who causes the accident. However, if other factors played a part in the accident, then various other parties can be liable to pay for the damages and injuries.
In most pedestrian accident claims, the parties liable are as follows:
Construction Companies: If the pedestrian had to move around due to construction companies creating hazards, then the liability can fall on the said companies. This applies if the pedestrian was forced into dangerous spots/oncoming traffic due to conditions created by the construction company.
Drivers: These are usually the most common liable parties in pedestrian accident claims. Drivers can be responsible if their direct negligence led to the accident. Some common reasons drivers are at fault include speeding, running red lights, driving under the influence, etc.
Employers of Negligent Drivers: If a negligent driver was employed by a company, then the said company will be responsible for any accident. This usually applies to cases where commercial drivers are responsible for causing accidents.
Municipalities: If negligent road conditions played a part in the accident, then the local government or municipalities can be liable. This applies if the accident occurred due to a lack of proper signage, faulty traffic signals, or poorly maintained roads.
Property Owners: Pedestrians are required to walk on sidewalks when available. However, if the sidewalk on a private property was poorly maintained, obstructed, or had other problems, then the owner of the property can be liable.
Examining the cause of your accident can help us determine the party liable in your case. This is the first thing our pedestrian accident attorneys do, and establish the side responsible in your case. Then, we strategize the steps ahead to prove their fault and seek compensation.
How To Prove Negligence In Pedestrian Accidents
Proving negligence in a pedestrian accident requires us to show the standards of care and how they were breached when the accident occurred. Then, we will have to link your injuries to the accident to claim compensation.
In order to prove this, the following type of evidence is necessary:
- Accident report
- Medical records and history
- Photos and videos of the accident
- Witness and expert testimonies
Once we have the necessary evidence, here is how our Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers will prove negligence:
Duty of Care: The first thing to do will be to establish the duty of care owed to you by the liable party. For instance, we will show the standards of care expected of drivers under California law, including yielding right of way, driving slowly, or stopping around pedestrians, etc.
Breach of Duty: For this, we will have to establish the negligence of the responsible party. We will show that a breach of duty occurred, which was the primary reason behind the accident. Thus, showing that the accident would not have occurred, were it not for the driver’s negligence.
Causation: We will demonstrate that your injuries were a direct result of the accident. This link between your injuries and the pedestrian accident will be established using medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies (if needed).
Damages: We will show the damages that you suffered due to the injury. This includes demonstrating the impact of injuries on your everyday life, financial impact, and mental distress caused by the incident.
What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Bakersfield
The immediate aftermath of a pedestrian accident may not give you much choice but to get medical attention immediately. However, if and when you are able to, you should gather key evidence and document your case.
Here is what you should do after a pedestrian accident:
- Ensure Safety & Call 911: The first thing you should do is ensure that you are safe and out of harm’s way. Then, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention on the scene, and ask for the police as well. If you can, do not let the driver leave until the police arrive.
- Get Medical Attention: Even if you are not badly hurt, you need to get medical attention. Not only to ensure you do not have internal damage, but also to generate a medical report and official diagnosis from a doctor.
- Gather Evidence: Gather key evidence to build your case. This includes medical records, accident reports from the police, witness statements, and expert testimonies. Also, gather visual evidence, such as photos and videos of the accident scene.
- Document the Case: Begin documenting the impact of the accident on your life. This includes injuries, symptoms, treatments, missed work, and other factors of your life impacted by the injury. Also, keep track of the losses and expenses that you bear.
- Consult Our Pedestrian Accident Law Firm: Talk to our Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys as soon as you can. We will help you through the case, file a claim for you, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in California
The Statutes of Limitations require you to file a claim within a certain period after an injury or accident. The clock begins ticking from the day of the accident or injury. This stipulation can vary, depending on specific cases.
For personal injury claims, like pedestrian accidents, you will have two years from the day of the injury or accident to file a claim in California. CCP 335.1.
If a pedestrian accident leads to the death of the victim, then the family of the deceased has the right to file a wrongful death claim. In that case, the time limit will be two years from the day of the person’s death. CCP 377.60
Get a FREE Consultation From Our Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
If you were involved in a pedestrian accident, you must be facing unfathomable challenges. Aside from injuries and mental trauma, you might be entangled in financial challenges and legal difficulties. However, you have the support of our local Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys throughout the case.
Here is how Goldberg & Loren will help you from the beginning:
- Analysis of your case to establish facts and lay out the steps ahead
- Comprehensive investigation and collection of evidence to strengthen your case
- Communicate with witnesses, experts, and involved parties
- File a claim for you in the court
- Negotiate for a fair settlement, or pursue the case in court
- Provide support throughout the case
- Take no pay until we win the claim for you
We are here and ready to take the next step with you. If you are unable to consult with us in person, we can also discuss the details during online appointments.
Call us at (661) 669-8224 and book a free consultation with our Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyers.
Goldberg & Loren
1701 Westwind Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 669-8224
Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Resources
Local Hospitals & Emergency Rooms:
Personal injuries can be serious and require immediate medical intervention. Our clients in Anchorage recommend the following hospitals and emergency rooms:
Kern Medical – Emergency Room (Level II Trauma Center)
Phone: (661) 326-2000
Address: 1700 Mount Vernon Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93306
Adventist Health Bakersfield Emergency Room
Phone: (661) 395-3000
Address: 2615 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Repair Shops:
Bakersfield Mobile Auto Repair and Dba. Jesse Mobile Auto Repair
Phone: (661) 241-8581
Address: 326 21st St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
*Note: We do not endorse these hospitals or medical facilities. These are suggestions made by our clients in Bakersfield.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Start by ensuring your safety and moving out of danger’s way. Then you should take photos of the accident scene, injuries, etc. Also, exchange information with the involved driver. Call 911 and seek medical attention and the police on the scene.
The most important documentation to keep after a pedestrian accident includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, and photos/videos of the accident. Also, keep any receipts or bills related to the medical attention that you receive.
It is suggested that you contact one as soon as you can. Early consultation from a capable pedestrian accident lawyer can help you build your case. They can help prove your claim while also managing communications with insurance and involved parties on your behalf.
During the initial consultation, your pedestrian accident lawyer will ask questions, require details, and review the evidence that you have. They will then explore the steps ahead and the legal options you have. Upon your consent, they will begin the legal proceedings.
Sources:
[1] California, S. O. (n.d.). OTS crash rankings Results | Office of Traffic Safety. https://www.ots.ca.gov/media-and-research/crash-rankings-results/?wpv_view_count=1327&wpv-wpcf-year=2022&wpv-wpcf-city_county=Bakersfield&wpv_filter_submit=Submit
[2] Bakersfield, CA – Official website | Official website. (n.d.). https://www.bakersfieldcity.us/?contentId=4d838d7e-5788-4282-b99a-5d62829999ca&viewAll=dadc7c62-ec70-48d2-8d33-47b6a220004a
Have you recently been hit by a vehicle while crossing the street in Bakersfield? Then you need a heavy-hitting lawyer by your side. Get in touch with our top-rated law firm today!
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