(Bakersfield, CA) A baby sustained severe injuries at an intersection in an 8th Street crash in Central Bakersfield.
On Sunday, August 24, at about 7:31 p.m., the 8th Street crash occurred. According to the Bakersfield Police Department, it happened at the intersection of 8th Street and T street.
Upon investigating, police learned a woman drove a silver sedan northbound on T Street. Meanwhile, a man drove a red pick-up truck westbound on 8th Street. All of a sudden, both vehicles collided. When officers arrived at the 8th Street crash, they found the pick-up truck and the sedan. Police identified a passenger in the sedan as a baby, who sustained severe injuries. Paramedics transported the baby to a hospital for further treatment. Both drivers declined medical aid. Both drivers remained at the scene, cooperating with the investigation. Police have ruled out impairment as a factor.
Legal Opinion on the 8th Street Crash
The 8th Street crash raises several legal concerns. Even though DUI is not involved, liability may still arise. Under California Vehicle Code 21802, drivers approaching a stop sign must yield the right of way to other vehicles close enough to constitute a hazard. Similarly, VEH 21804 requires drivers entering a roadway to yield until it is safe. Investigators will review traffic signals, stop signs, speed, and positioning to determine who had the legal right of way. Additionally, VEH 22350, the Basic Speed Law, requires all drivers to travel at a safe speed for conditions. Even driving at the posted limit can be unsafe if a driver enters an intersection without adequate caution.
What the Family Can Do
The family of the injured baby has the right to pursue a personal injury claim on the child’s behalf. That claim may cover medical bills, rehabilitation, long-term care, and compensation for pain and suffering. Since infants are especially vulnerable, courts take special care to ensure settlements account for potential lifelong effects of serious injuries.
An attorney can assist by obtaining the police report of the 8th Street crash, interviewing witnesses, and checking for surveillance or traffic camera footage. Accident reconstruction experts may also help establish which driver failed to yield or entered the intersection unsafely. Even though both drivers remained on scene, liability will still fall on the driver who violated California’s right-of-way rules. Insurance coverage from the at-fault driver can then be used to cover the baby’s medical and future needs. Taking legal steps quickly allows the family to focus on the baby’s recovery while ensuring that evidence is preserved and accountability is pursued.
We at Accident News Now offer our encouragement and support. We know this is a confusing time as you deal with the uncertainties resulting from this terrible incident. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
