Bakersfield, CA (November 9, 2023) A police officer and another man were both injured on Wednesday, November 8th, following a collision between an SUV and a police cruiser, according to authorities. The collision took place around 12:49 p.m. in northwest Bakersfield.
Reports indicate that a Bakersfield Police Officer was driving a patrol car south on Calloway Drive, heading toward the intersection with Brimhall Road. As the patrol car neared the intersection, an SUV, which was heading north on Calloway Drive, tuned west and crossed the southbound lanes of Calloway Drive. The SUV turned right in front of the patrol car. The officer driving the car didn’t have time to react and couldn’t get out of the SUV’s path, so the two vehicles collided.
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The police officer in the patrol car and the man driving the SUV were both injured in the collision. According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the injuries are non-life-threatening. Officers investigated the scene to learn more about what led up to the collision. They do not believe speed or intoxication were factors in this 2-vehicle crash.
There was some debris on the road that had to be removed and officers are trying to determine why the SUV made a turn directly in front of an oncoming vehicle. The collision in northwest Bakersfield is still being investigated.
Liability In Bakersfield Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Bakersfield Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend well wishes to the two people injured in this collision Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Bakersfield car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
