Bakersfield Solo Car Accident Left One Passenger Fatal, Others Injured After-Year-Old Driver Crashed into a Tree
Bakersfield, CA (September 17, 2023) –A passenger succumbed to fatal injuries after a 15-year-old driver crashed into a tree in a Bakersfield solo car accident. The driver and two others also suffered injuries from the crash. According to SFGate, the crash occurred last June 10.
A passenger succumbed to fatal injuries after a 15-year-old driver crashed into a tree in a Bakersfield solo car accident. The driver and two others also suffered injuries from the crash.
Authorities charged a California mother with child cruelty following a Bakersfield solo car accident allegedly caused by her 15-year-old son that resulted in the death of one occupant.
In June, a Bakersfield Police Department officer witnessed a Dodge Challenger veering through the grass at Polo Park. When the officer initiated a traffic stop, the driver of the Challenger reportedly attempted to evade capture.
Unfortunately, the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing the car to hit a tree on Noriega Road.
Based on police reports from KGET, the 15-year-old sped from the scene at 100 mph without a driver’s license.
Due to the crash’s impact, the 15-year-old driver and three teenage passengers sustained injuries.
Furthermore, initial media coverage mentioned the severe injuries sustained by a teenage boy seated in the front passenger seat during the accident. However, authorities later confirmed the death of one of the vehicle’s occupants.
Following the collision with the tree, the reports indicate that a responding officer had to extricate a young boy from the front passenger seat, who later succumbed to head trauma suffered in the crash. The identity of the underage driver has not been disclosed.
Moreover, Kern County court records child cruelty, felony, and permitting an unlicensed individual to operate a vehicle charges against the 45-year-old mother of the alleged driver.
KGET’s reports suggest she “entrusted her 15-year-old son with the keys to her Dodge Challenger, with the understanding that he would make a brief trip to the market and return promptly.”
The mother’s bail is $20,500, and she must appear in court for a preliminary hearing in mid-October.
J&M Tip: Gaining driving skills during adolescence can be an exhilarating milestone for young individuals. Even with this, teenage drivers pose a higher risk due to their limited experience behind the wheel, which may hinder their ability to make sound decisions on the road.
Google Map of Car Accident in Bakersfield, CA
More About Car Accident Liability
Various circumstances of the car accident can pinpoint the liability of damages. In some instances, thorough investigations can reveal careless behavior. This can include the simple act of recklessly turning or cutting in front of another vehicle. In terms of determining who is at fault for an accident, this can be defined by common law. Any Sacramento or Los Angeles car accident lawyer recognizes that fault has four basic levels:
- Negligence
- Recklessness (wanton conduct)
- Intentional misconduct
- Strict liability
However, different state laws can have variations of applicable traffic laws. For example, in some states, multiple drivers can be liable for an accident. This is why thorough investigations are important after a car accident. Having a strong case showing the liability of the at-fault party can help guarantee your compensation. Likewise, a car crash attorney can also help you determine all your options, so you can fully recover from the accident. Learn more about car accident lawyers in California here. You can also check out these resources about wrongful death attorneys and personal injury lawyers.
Personal Injury (Wrongful Death) Claims in Bakersfield
In this case, the family members of the fatal victim in this Bakersfield solo car accident can have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. However, it can depend on the investigation’s findings. In addition to that, negligence by a person or business can contribute to an accident, which might have resulted in the death of a family member. If that is the case, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim and receive a big settlement.
Indeed, no amount of money will ever make up for the death of a loved one. However, receiving the maximum settlement and winning a judgment can give a sense of justice. Also, it can offer some peace of mind.
Do you have any legal questions about accidents? Get answers and common accident-related legal advice here:
- Wrongful Death
- Car Accident
- Pedestrian Accident
- Hit and Run Accident
- Truck Accident
- Motorcycle Accident
- Bicycle Accident
Certainly, nothing can alleviate the pain of losing a loved one. However, it’s also important to get your rightful compensation to help with recovery. Getting advice and guidance from experienced personal injury attorneys can help you pursue your case. For instance, Jacoby and Meyers has a team of the best lawyers for any car accident, wrongful death, or motorcycle accident cases in California, including Los Angeles, Bakersfield, and Sacramento. Consulting a lawyer can help you get insight and information about complicated topics, including car accident settlements and more. If you’d like to get professional advice about your case, give us a call today at 888-960-0480 for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you.
Source(s):
- https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/california-mom-charged-teen-fatal-crash-18371670.php
- https://www.kget.com/news/crime-watch/mother-charged-in-fatal-crash-after-allowing-son-15-to-drive-docs/
