Bakersfield Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney

A hit-and-run automobile accident in Bakersfield can leave you with many questions about your rights and legal options. Without the at-fault driver identified, you may not know where to turn for financial recovery. With assistance from a Bakersfield car accident lawyer at Jacoby & Meyers, you can explore your options and make informed decisions about your claim.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Bakersfield

Under California law (Vehicle Code § 20002), a hit-and-run is a type of crime where a party directly involved in a motor vehicle accident does not stop at the scene of the collision to fulfill his or her legal responsibilities. If convicted, an individual may face misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the extent of the damage and injuries involved.

A Driver’s Legal Obligations in California

All motor vehicle drivers in California have a legal responsibility to stop at the scene of car accidents and fulfill certain obligations before leaving. These include:

• Immediately stopping the vehicle at the nearest location that does not impede traffic or create a hazard

• Exchanging names, addresses, and vehicle registration numbers with the other driver and any vehicle passengers

• Providing identification information to any traffic or police officer at the scene of the accident, including a driver’s license upon request

• Rendering reasonable aid to any person injured in the accident, such as arranging medical treatment

If a car crash in Bakersfield appears to have caused injuries, deaths, or at least $1,000 in property damage, notifying law enforcement or reporting the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles is required. 

Common Causes of Hit-and-Run Incidents

Hit-and-run car accidents often involve other unlawful or unsafe driving behaviors. Common examples include driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol, distracted driving, texting while driving, and driving without insurance or a valid driver’s license.

IIn some cases, a driver may leave the scene to avoid potential legal consequences. Nighttime conditions and inadequate lighting in Bakersfield may also contribute to these incidents. Hit-and-run accidents can involve not only other vehicles, but also cyclists or pedestrians.

Statistics on Hit-and-Run Accidents in Bakersfield

Hit-and-run incidents remain a concern on the streets of Bakersfield. A national study in 2025 found that Kern County, California ranked 14th in the country for the number of fatal hit-and-run crashes. Two other Central Valley counties ranked 15th and 16th: Fresno County and Merced County, respectively.

In 2022 (the most recent year data is available), the City of Bakersfield recorded 226 hit-and-run accidents that resulted in injuries or deaths. Kern County reported 495 hit-and-runs that same year. There were also 2,837 DUI arrests and 788 alcohol-involved serious accidents in Kern County.

How a Bakersfield Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney Can Help

Drivers who leave the scene of an accident can complicate California’s fault-based insurance system. Under this rule, the person or party who causes an automobile accident is generally responsible for resulting damages.

When the driver is not identified, individuals may have limited options for financial recovery. In this situation, a car accident attorney may provide guidance on available legal options.

Investigating the Accident

A car accident attorney in Bakersfield may use available resources during an accident investigation, including working with experts and law enforcement. In some cases, this may assist in identifying the driver involved.

Navigating Insurance Claims

Whether you are able to file a claim against the at-fault driver or need to rely on your own insurance coverage, an attorney may assist with filing your claim, providing supporting documentation, and communicating with insurance adjusters.

Pursuing Legal Action for Compensation

If a hit-and-run accident case proceeds to litigation, an attorney may represent you through the legal process. This can include filing a lawsuit, presenting evidence, and advocating on your behalf during proceedings.

Legal Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases

A key challenge in hit-and-run cases is identifying the at-fault driver. If the driver cannot be identified, recovery options may be more limited.

Dealing With Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

An opportunity for financial recovery may exist through your own insurance policy. In California, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage are optional. If you carry this coverage, it may apply in a hit-and-run accident where the other driver is not identified.

Potential Criminal Charges Against the Offender

A hit-and-run case may also involve criminal charges if the driver is identified. Individuals may choose to cooperate with law enforcement. A conviction may result in penalties such as fines, license suspension, or jail time. In some cases, restitution may be ordered.

Types of Compensation Available

An insurance claim or lawsuit following a hit-and-run accident in Bakersfield may allow for recovery of certain losses, depending on the circumstances and available coverage. These may include:

• Medical expenses: costs for current and future medical treatment
• Lost wages and earning capacity: income lost due to time away from work or reduced ability to earn
• Pain and suffering: physical and emotional impacts
• Property damage: costs to repair or replace a vehicle or other property

A lawyer may assist in identifying potential sources of recovery based on the facts of the case.

Taking the Next Steps: Contact Jacoby & Meyers for a Hit-and-Run Case Review in Bakersfield

If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Bakersfield or the surrounding area, you may consider seeking legal guidance by contacting Jacoby & Meyers. During a consultation, we can review your situation and explain potential next steps.

Call our local Bakersfield law office today at (661) 402-8934 to discuss your case

2020 Eye St
Bakersfield, CA 93301