The rapid urbanization of Bakersfield has brought with it new challenges in the area of pedestrian safety. Analysis of city infrastructure conducted by the California Department of Transportation indicates critical deficiencies in the pedestrian crossing system of signaling and street lighting. Of particular concern is the situation in central urban areas where the frequency of traffic is constantly increasing and the existing infrastructure does not keep up with the needs of the growing population.
The area of the Highway 99 corridor and central business districts in particular stand out for the frequency of incidents while the areas of Buck Owens Boulevard and Truxtun Avenue record a dramatic increase in accidents in the evenings.
The Statistics of Pedestrian Accidents in California
California has one of the highest rates of pedestrian accidents in the United States. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, more than 7,500 pedestrians are injured in traffic accidents each year, while over 900 people lose their lives. Bakersfield stands out as a high-risk city for pedestrians emphasizing the need for legal and infrastructural intervention.
National Safety Council analysis shows that fatalities in pedestrian accidents have been on the rise since 2010. In 2022, pedestrians accounted for 17.7% of all traffic fatalities in the United States. Alcohol was a factor in 42% of these accidents aggravating the situation.
The Key Factors Contributing to Accidents
Speed of the Vehicle
Statistics show that 60% of pedestrian fatalities occur on city lanes with a speed limit of 45-55 miles per hour. In Bakersfield, particularly risky are the routes along the main commercial zones where the needs for fast traffic flow and access to shops and restaurants meet. Studies confirm that higher vehicle speeds not only increase the likelihood of collisions but also dramatically worsen the severity of injuries to pedestrians.
Location and Street Design
An analysis of the most dangerous roads in Bakersfield shows a worrying trend. The streets with the highest number of accidents are characterized by the presence of commercial facilities with multiple lanes of traffic and speed limits over 30 miles per hour. Especially problematic are the stretches along California Avenue and Ming Avenue where the combination of these factors creates a high-risk pedestrian environment.
Size of the Vehicle
The increase in the number of SUVs on the streets of Bakersfield represents an additional risk factor. Because of their greater weight and profile, these vehicles can inflict significantly more serious injuries on pedestrians in a collision. Our legal practice records an increase in serious injury cases precisely in incidents involving SUVs.
Alcohol as a Factor
Alarmingly, alcohol is involved in nearly half (48 percent) of all pedestrian fatalities. In these cases:
- 18% of drivers had a blood-alcohol limit
- 30% of pedestrians were under the influence of alcohol above the legal limit
The Most Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries that can have long-term consequences:
- Traumatic brain injuries that may require lifelong care
- Spinal cord injuries that often lead to permanent disability
- Multiple fractures requiring multiple surgeries
- Injury to internal organs
What to Do After an Accident
If you find yourself the victim of a pedestrian accident, the following steps are crucial:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Documenting the accident scene
- Collecting contacts of witnesses
- Contacting an experienced lawyer
Legal Protection and Prevention
As an experienced pedestrian accident attorney Bakersfield, the Bojat Law Group pays special attention to educating our clients about their rights. California Vehicle Code Section 21950 clearly defines the rights of pedestrians and the duties of drivers. Knowing the truth is just the first step.
Bojat Law Group Will Help You Recover Compensation for Damages
Our team will help you to achieve compensation for:
- All medical expenses including future treatments
- Lost earnings and reduced work capacity
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
- Home dodifications if needed because of disability
- Loss of quality of life
Contact Us Today
Pedestrian accidents can dramatically change the lives of the victim and his family. As an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Bakersfield our team at Bojat Law Group is dedicated to providing legal support when you need it most. We understand that you’re facing a difficult period and we’re here to facilitate the legal process while you focus on your recovery.
Do not let the legal deadlines for filing a complaint pass. Contact us right away! Stand up for your rights. Call Bojat Law Group today and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
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