Bakersfield, CA – Early Sunday, August 4, 2024, a single-vehicle crash with a light pole on Highway 99 resulted in a man’s death and a woman’s hospitalization, according to KBAK.
The accident occurred around 6:47 AM on Highway 99, just south of California Avenue.
Investigators report that a 50-year-old woman from Los Angeles was driving a 2019 Nissan southbound on Highway 99 at an undetermined speed, when the vehicle veered off the roadway to the right, striking a metal streetlight pole and a tree on the embankment.
Both occupants sustained severe injuries and were transported to Kern Medical. The passenger, a 50-year-old man from Compton, was pronounced dead at the hospital. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) noted that alcohol and drugs did not appear to be factors in the crash.
Liability in Single-Vehicle Collisions
In certain situations, investigations may uncover that some liability for a single-vehicle collision falls on other drivers nearby or even on unsafe roadway structures. Sorting through these details to help victims and their families secure proper compensation is one of the key services a personal injury attorney offers.
After establishing liability, a personal injury attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on the victim’s behalf. Insurance companies invariably aim to minimize payouts for claims they cannot deny, making legal representation crucial for obtaining fair compensation.
Passenger Liability
The liability insurance that drivers carry is designed to cover accidental harm caused not only to those outside the vehicle but also to passengers within it. While making a Wrongful Death claim against someone who knew the victim can be emotionally challenging, a skilled personal injury attorney can help grieving families seek proper compensation for their loss by navigating these complex issues.
