Fatal Bakersfield Car Accident

Three people were fatally injured in a Bakersfield car accident after a head-on collision between two vehicles on Highway 46. ABC News reports that the fatal car accident, which also left two others seriously injured, occurred the night of April 5, 2010. The incident happened when an 18-year-old driver of a Jeep Cherokee that was eastbound, went into opposing lanes of traffic and hit a 2001 GMC Safari. The drivers of both vehicles, as well as a passenger in the Safari, were killed at the scene. Two other passengers in the Safari were taken to an area hospital for treatment.

I offer my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased victims for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. I also hope the two injured victims will make a quick and full recovery from their injuries. These victims and their families will be in my prayers.

Car Accidents

There were 29 fatalities and 1,111 injuries involving car accidents in Bakersfield, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Countywide, 103 deaths and 3,460 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents in 2008.

Circumstances of the Accident

If the details of this news report are accurate, it seems that the 18-year-old driver may have caused the accident. However, authorities must be looking at a variety of issues including whether the teen driver was under the influence, if he was tired or sleepy, or if he was distracted at the time of the collision. What caused him to go into oncoming traffic and cause the head-on collision?

Liability Issues

If the 18-year-old driver of the Jeep is determined to have been at fault, the families of the deceased victims in the Safari as well as the injured victims can seek compensation from the deceased driver's estate and his insurance. The deceased victims' families could file wrongful death claims seeking damages. An experienced Bakersfield personal injury lawyer will help injured victims stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.