Bakersfield, CA — KBAK reports that a hit-and-run incident claimed the life of a 45-year-old woman on California Avenue near Mercado Latino Sunday night, June 23, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the incident occurred around 11:17 PM when officers responded to reports of a pedestrian struck outside a marked crosswalk at the intersection of California Avenue and Ogden Street.
Initial investigations by CHP revealed that the woman was walking south across the westbound lanes of California Avenue when she was hit by an unidentified vehicle traveling westbound. The collision occurred between the number one and two lanes, after which the vehicle fled the scene. The pedestrian suffered critical injuries and was rushed to Kern Medical, where she unfortunately succumbed to her wounds.
Authorities are actively seeking information about the driver involved in this fatal hit-and-run. It remains unclear whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Motorists bear an added responsibility, known as the “Duty of Care,” towards pedestrians due to their heightened vulnerability in car accidents, often leading to pedestrian fatalities. Motorists are expected to stay with injured pedestrians to aid in securing help from emergency services and to cooperate with authorities upon their arrival.
For those who have lost a loved one in a vehicular fatality, understanding that a Wrongful Death claim, guided by an experienced personal injury attorney, can provide compensation is crucial. This compensation can alleviate the financial strain of medical bills, burial expenses, and the loss of income for dependents of the deceased.
If the at-fault driver evades legal consequences, compensation might still be accessible through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Seeking advice from a personal injury attorney can help ascertain the most suitable options in such circumstances.
