Bakersfield, CA – A collision on Thursday, October 31, 2024, on the Westside Parkway claimed the life of a pedestrian, as reported by KBAK.
Authorities say the incident occurred around 6:40 PM near Allen Road, involving a skateboarder who was struck and killed along the freeway’s shoulder.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), responding officers found a body in the middle of the roadway just east of Allen Road, prompting the closure of three westbound lanes and diverting traffic to Calloway Drive. Witnesses reported that the skateboarder was hit by at least two vehicles, both of which sustained significant damage from the impact.
The identity of the deceased skateboarder has not yet been released, pending notification by the Kern County Coroner’s Office. Authorities stated that neither driver showed signs of alcohol or drug impairment.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is held only partially liable in a pedestrian accident. If that is the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
