Bakersfield, CA – On the night of Tuesday, February 27, in northeast Bakersfield, 15-year-old Jacob Gonzalez was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver, according to KBAK.
Around 9:40 PM, Gonzalez and a passenger were riding a home-built gas-powered mini-bike through the intersection of River Boulevard and Skyline Boulevard.
An orange Jeep crashed into the mini-bike and fled the scene. Emergency responders transported Gonzalez to Kern Medical, where he succumbed to his wounds.
Wrongful Death Claims
While no amount of money can bring back those who lose their lives in a vehicular fatality, the emotional burden of their loss is often accompanied by a financial burden that falls on their surviving family members.
A wrongful death claim filed with the insurance provider of an at-fault driver can provide compensation to help cover medical expenses, burial costs, and even the loss of support for dependents of the deceased.
However, because insurance companies carry the incentive to reduce the payout for any claim they cannot deny, the services of a skilled personal injury attorney can prove crucial in securing justice for the deceased.
Duty of Care
Cyclists and pedestrians are owed a “duty of care” from drivers no matter where they meet. Motorists are legally obligated to monitor the roads ahead, and all mirrors and blind spots, for any rider who may be nearby. Drivers must hit the brakes to avoid any chance of a collision. This legal responsibility stems from the fact that cyclists and pedestrians travel with less protection alongside heavier and faster cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Drivers must also stop once a collision has occurred to get medical attention for a cyclist or pedestrian as fast as possible. Remaining on the scene, turning on hazard lights, and blocking off traffic also reduce the chances of the victim being struck by approaching motorists who may not be able to see an injured cyclist down in the street.
