An Experienced Car Accident Lawyer — Bakersfield, CA

Were You Seriously Injured in a Car Accident in Bakersfield?

While certainly not as busy and congested as Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco, Bakersfield sees a large number of car accidents every day on its roads and highways. Whether it’s a semi-truck carrying heavy cargo or a speeding sports car, motor vehicle accidents can take a heavy toll on victims. If you’ve been injured in a serious car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you need the right legal representation to get you back on track.

The Law Offices of Daniel Kim is an experienced personal injury law firm specializing in auto accidents. We treat each client like family, and we will be with you every step of the way during this difficult time. Our Bakersfield car accident lawyers will bring the at-fault driver to justice while getting you the financial compensation you deserve.

To schedule your free case evaluation, call our law office at (661) 846-8116 or send us a message online. Our Bakersfield personal injury lawyer is proud to serve the nearby neighborhoods and surrounding cities of Kern County including Ridgecrest, Tehachapi, Delano, California City, Shafter, Wasco, Arvin, Taft, McFarland, Rosamond, Frazier Park, Lebec, Lamont, and Mojave.

No Win. No Fee. Guaranteed.

After suffering injuries in an auto accident, you may be hesitant to hire an attorney because of the steep costs associated with law firms. Let us assure you that is not the case at our law firm. We work on a 100% contingency fee basis, meaning you do not have to pay any upfront or out of pocket legal fees until we win your case.

Why Hire Daniel Kim as Your Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer?

Throughout his career, Daniel Kim has always put the interests of his clients first. Seeing how car accidents affect a person’s life, Daniel and his legal team are dedicated to recovering maximum compensation so injury victims can return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Since opening his own practice, he has helped his clients recover over $250 million in settlements.

Daniel has been recognized by numerous prestigious law organizations for his outstanding work and commitment to fighting for justice. He has been named one of the Best Attorneys in America, in addition to receiving multiple awards from The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, National Association of Distinguished Counsel, and many more.

To learn more about us and what we offer, request your free consultation today by phone or in person. You do not pay any fees until you are compensated.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident?

Immediately after an auto accident, you are likely to be in a state of shock. Most car accidents happen within a few seconds, but can leave a long lasting effect on victims. Once the shock has worn off, you need to act quickly in order to protect your legal rights. This is where an experienced car accident lawyer can help. Our car accident attorneys are experienced in obtaining maximum compensation for clients injured in accidents that were not their fault. Through our detailed investigation of your crash, we will determine the cause and damages that resulted, and we will take your case to the insurance company.

Insurance companies are notoriously difficult to deal with. Their main objective is to settle quickly and close your claim for as little as possible. Our attorney knows what a fair settlement is, and what is not. We will fight for full and fair compensation for you and take your case to trial if necessary. If you try to take on your case alone, you may not receive a fair outcome. Let our legal team do the heavy lifting for you while you focus on your recovery.

How Much Do Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyers Cost?

No win, no fee. It’s that simple. If we are not successful in winning your case, you do not pay. However, we have a 99% success rate, so we are confident we will win and get you the settlement you deserve.

Most personal injury attorneys in California take a standard percentage of your settlement, or approximately 33% (or a third of the total settlement awarded). We will explain our fee structure in a free no-obligation consultation.

How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth?

The value of your car accident claim will depend on several factors, including the severity of the accident, the amount of damages involved, and the insurance policies of both parties. When working with experienced attorneys, they can give you an estimated value of your claim after gathering all the details. The Law Offices of Daniel Kim has helped many personal injury victims recover from financial and non-financial losses, including:

• Medical bills: Expenses for all past and future medical costs including hospital visits, medication, surgery, ongoing treatment, physical therapy, and pain management.
• Pain and suffering: Considered non-economic damages, this includes physical pain and emotional distress as a result from the accident.
• Emotional trauma: Psychological trauma including depression, anxiety, insomnia, or PTSD.
• Lost wages: While recovering from an injury, many victims are unable to return to work. Because of this, their income is affected.
• Property damage: This applies to the vehicle that was hit or other personal items that were damaged in the collision.
• Permanent physical injuries: If you suffered permanent physical injuries or a disability, you may be eligible to recover compensation.
• Wrongful death: If you lost a loved one in an auto accident, you may be able to seek damages including funeral and burial expenses.

What Causes Most Car Accidents?

Car accidents happen on a daily basis not only in Bakersfield, but across the country. According to the NHTSA, there were over 5 million car accidents in 2020. Of those accidents, 43% resulted in injury. Most car accidents, bodily injuries, and fatalities are attributed to the same factors, such as speeding, DUI, distracted driving, and not wearing a seat belt. Below are some of the most common causes of car accidents in California:

• Speeding
• Driving under the influence
• Distracted driving 
• Reckless driving and road rage
• Running red lights and stop signs
• Poor road conditions
• Severe weather
• Drowsy drivers
• Inexperienced drivers

Given these risky behaviors, car accidents can range from single vehicle accidents to rear-end collisions. If you sustained a serious injury in an auto accident, call our Bakersfield car accident attorney to start investigating your case.

Who Is At Fault in a Car Accident?

In most states including California, when an accident occurs, one party is usually considered “at-fault” and must cover the personal injuries of the other driver and their passengers. Determining who is at fault in a car accident involves identifying the negligent or reckless driver responsible for the accident. In some cases, it’s clear. For example, if a drunk driver runs a red light and hits another driver, then the drunk driver is at fault because they clearly violated traffic laws. However, determining fault in a car accident is not always straightforward.

In a personal injury claim, California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means that even if you are partially at fault for an accident in California, you can still recover compensation for your injuries and damages. However, the amount you are entitled to will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you were involved in a car accident and the court determines that you were 20% at fault for the accident, and the other party was 80% at fault, you can only recover 80% in damages.

Our car accident attorney in Bakersfield can explain liability and fault in more detail in a free case evaluation.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?

Immediately after a car accident, you are likely to be under a lot of duress. Given the stress and physical pain, you may find it difficult to know what to do. You might get the other driver’s info, but forget to take pictures of the accident. Below is a summary of what crucial steps you should try to take immediately after a car accident:

1. Seek immediate medical attention

Even if you feel fine, it is very important to get medical attention after a car accident. You may have serious injuries that are not immediately visible, such as whiplash or a concussion. Having medical records will also greatly help you if you decide to file a claim.

2. Call the police

After a serious accident involving injury, you or the other party involved is required by law to call the local police or California Highway Patrol. After the officer arrives on the scene and gathers information, make sure to get a copy or case number of the police report.

3. Exchange drivers info

Do not let the other driver leave without getting their contact info. Get their name, number, driver’s license and insurance information. If you have a phone with a camera, it may be easier to take a photo of their license and insurance card instead of writing it down.

4. Collect evidence at the scene

If you are able to do so, collect as much evidence as you can at the accident scene. Document the time of the crash, the location, any road signs or signals, or other relevant information.

5. Talk to witnesses

If there are any witnesses, exchange contact info and contact them as soon as possible.

6. Take photos

Use your phone to take photos or videos of the accident including vehicle damage, street signs, and your injuries.

7. Contact a qualified attorney

Reach out to experienced Bakersfield car accident lawyers when you are home recovering. An attorney will begin investigating your crash as soon as possible to determine the right course of action.

What to Do in a Hit-and-Run Accident

In California, hit-and-run accidents are taken very seriously and are considered a misdemeanor or criminal offense, depending on the severity of the accident. By law, anyone involved in an accident must stop and exchange information with the other driver. If a driver leaves the scene, it is considered a hit-and-run. The penalties for hit-and-run accidents can be severe and may include fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension.

If you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident, do not leave the accident scene. Contact law enforcement and seek appropriate medical attention for your injuries. You should still contact a car accident attorney, even if the other driver cannot be found. Our attorneys can help you recover damages through your own insurance provider.

What Are the Types of Car Accident Injuries?

Car crashes can result in a wide range of injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries. The types of car accident injuries vary depending on the nature of the collision, the speed of the vehicles involved, the use of seat belts and airbags, and other factors. Here are some common types of car accident injuries:

• Back and neck injuries: Back and neck injuries like whiplash are common in rear-end collisions where you are likely to be hit with a powerful impact.

• Broken bones: A car wreck victim may sustain broken bones, and depending on the location of the fracture, recovery may take weeks or even months.

• Burns and lacerations: Burns, lacerations, and wounds are common car accident injuries. Immediate medical treatment is required or there is a risk of permanent skin damage.

• Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can range from minor to severe. Brain injuries may not be immediately visible, but can cause serious and permanent damage.

• Leg and knee injuries: Torn ACL and meniscus injuries may put a victim out of work due to limited mobility.

• Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can range from strains and sprains to more severe injuries and even paralysis.

• Amputation: Amputation is a catastrophic injury that involves the loss of a limb. According to Johns Hopkins University, traumatic injury accounts for about 45% of all amputations.

• Wrongful death: Unfortunately, some car accident victims do not recover from their catastrophic injuries. If a person passes away from a car accident, the surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim?

Under California’s statute of limitations, car accident victims have two (2) years from the date of the accident to file a car accident claim. Failing to file within the time limit will result in your claim being dismissed, and you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

• Do I Need a Police Report to File a Claim?

Under California law, you must call the police after a car accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. The police officer who responds to the accident scene will create an official accident report, which will serve as a record of the accident. It is important to obtain a copy of the report to help prove your case if you decide to file a claim with the  insurance company.

If you are not able to obtain a police report, you may still be able to file a claim using other forms of evidence, including medical records, photos of the accident scene, and witness statements. A car accident attorney in Bakersfield can guide you on to which evidence you will need.

• Should I Speak With The Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

Most car accident lawyers will tell you to be very careful when speaking with the at fault driver’s insurance company. This is because the insurance adjuster will try to settle your claim as quickly and cheaply as possible. They will want to get your statement, but be very cautious as to what you say without a lawyer present.

• What Happens If The Other Driver is Uninsured or Underinsured?

If you’re in a car accident with a driver who does not have auto insurance or not enough to cover your damages or injuries, you may need to rely on your own uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance coverage (UM/UIM).

If you do not have this type of coverage, you may need to pursue legal action against the uninsured driver personally to try to recover damages. An experienced attorney can inform you about your legal options against uninsured or underinsured drivers.

• Should I See a Doctor After a Car Accident?

Yes. Even if your injuries are minor, you should still see a doctor after a car accident. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away and can worsen over time if left untreated. A doctor can evaluate your condition and recommend any necessary treatment. Additionally, seeing a doctor will help you prove your case if you decide to file a claim later on.

• What If I Can’t Afford My Medical Bills?

If you can’t afford your medical bills after a car accident, our car accident attorneys can help you. We can negotiate with your healthcare provider to reduce your bills or set up a payment plan. Additionally, a portion of your settlement will include compensation for past and future medical expenses.

• What Happens If Medical Bills Exceed Policy Limits?

The at-fault party is responsible for covering your medical expenses, even if they exceed policy limits. If policy limits are exhausted. you may also use your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to cover the remaining balance. Our medical management team will explain all possible avenues with you.

• Will My Car Accident Case Go to Trial?

Not likely. According to the Bureau of Justice, only about 3% of all personal injury claims go to trial. This is due to the fact that most insurance companies prefer to settle outside of court through negotiations. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial. Our lawyers are skilled in negotiation and have a winning track record of success.

• How Long Does It Take to Resolve Car Accident Cases?

The time it takes to resolve personal injury cases depends on several factors, including the severity of the accident, the amount of damages involved, and the willingness of both parties to negotiate a settlement. Some cases can be resolved in a matter of weeks or months, while others may take years to resolve. Our Bakersfield auto accident attorney can give you a more clear estimate of your case in a free consultation.

Bakersfield Car Accident Statistics

Located on the Kern River, Bakersfield is a growing city in Southern California that is easily accessible by State Route 99 (SR 99), State Route 58 (SR 58), and Interstate-5 (I-5). Due to the constant influx of cars, large commercial vehicles, and motorcycles, the Southern California city experiences daily car accidents on its highways, roads, and intersections. In 2020, there were a reported 54 fatal traffic accidents in Bakersfield.

Dangerous Roads and Intersections

The following roads and intersections are the most dangerous for motorists:

• Ming Ave. and New Stine Rd.

• Gosford Rd. and Ming Ave.

• Real Rd. and Wilson Rd.

• California Ave. and Baker St.

• Union Ave. and California Ave.

• 4th St. and Union Ave.

• Columbus St. and Mount Vernon Ave.

• Golden State Avenue and F St.

• H St. and Wilson Rd.

• H St. and Planz Rd.

• Hageman Rd. and Riverlakes Dr.

• Oak St. and California Ave.

• Stockdale Hwy. and Village Ln.

• Union Ave. and 17th St.

• Union Ave. and 18th St.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyer Near You

If you suffered injuries in a serious car accident in Bakersfield, you need strong legal representation on your side. Our law firm exclusively focuses on motor vehicle accident cases, which allows us to offer the best service to our clients who want real experience and knowledge.

We are 100% committed to getting our clients maximum compensation. We are strong negotiators and will take on the insurance company so you don’t have to. Call us at (661) 846-8116 to schedule a free consultation today.

We are proud to serve nearby neighborhoods and communities of Bakersfield and Kern County including: Arvin, California City, Delano, Los Angeles, Maricopa, McFarland, Ridgecrest, Shafter, Taft, Tehachapi, and Wasco.

Other Practice Areas We Specialize In

Driving Directions to Our Bakersfield Office

Car Accident Lawyer Daniel Kim – Bakersfield
Address: 930 Truxtun Ave Suite 210, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: (661) 846-8116