Kern County Car Accident Lawyer Larry H. Parker

Kern County Car Accident Lawyer

The Kern County and Bakersfield car accident lawyers at The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker are dedicated to easing your burden and securing the compensation you deserve. We’ve established a trusted legacy of delivering justice with compassion and unmatched expertise with a proven track record of recovering over $1 billion for clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Let us fight for your rights and help you rebuild your life.

Did you know two of California’s deadliest roads are in Kern County? According to ConsumerAffairs, State Routes 178 and 99, both in Kern County, tied for the ninth deadliest road by number of fatalities in 2022 vs. 2018.

The aftermath of an auto crash can instantly change lives, leaving victims to grapple with anything from minor injuries to life-changing trauma. As medical bills pile up and financial pressures mount, the road to recovery can feel overwhelming.

Your well-being is more than a priority with us—it’s our mission. Call us at 866-661-6880 or reach out for a free consultation to share your story. We’ll listen compassionately, offer honest legal advice, and present solutions tailored to your needs.

Why Let The Offices of Larry H. Parker Work on Your Car Accident Case

An accident shakes the foundation of your life, especially when injuries are catastrophic or, heartbreakingly, result in wrongful death. In these vulnerable moments, having a car accident attorney who genuinely cares about your financial, emotional, and physical well-being isn’t just a benefit—it’s a lifeline.

At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, this is more than a profession—our mission. We go beyond fighting for MAXIMIZED compensation and simplifying legal complexities to bring you peace of mind. From connecting you with trusted medical professionals to offering steadfast support, we’re here to help you rebuild.

Why Families in Kern County and Bakersfield Trust Us After an Accident:

Unmatched Advocacy, Expertly Delivered:
Our skilled attorneys and dedicated staff examine every detail, creating customized strategies to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Client-First, Always:
Your needs come first. From transparent communication to compassionate guidance, we ensure you feel informed and supported at every stage.

Justice Without Financial Risk:
Our “no win, no fee” guarantee means you can pursue your case without financial stress. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing—simple as that.

Convenient and Accessible Guidance:
Whether in Kern County, Long Beach, or Phoenix, our offices and virtual consultations make expert legal help accessible anywhere in California or Arizona.

A Legacy of Results:
With over 50 years of experience and $2 billion recovered for more than 100,000 clients, our results speak for themselves. Behind every number is a story of resilience, recovery, and justice.

Let us stand by your side, fight for your rights, and help you move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward reclaiming your life.

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

The aftermath of a car accident can feel like your world has been turned upside down—physically, emotionally, and financially. The path to recovery often means seeking compensation for your losses, but the process of filing a car accident claim can quickly spiral into frustration and stress without the proper knowledge and guidance.

That’s where experienced car accident lawyers step in, dedicated to one vital mission: securing the maximum compensation you deserve while lifting the weight of the legal process off your shoulders. Here’s how they make it happen:

Building a Rock-Solid Case: Your lawyer works tirelessly to gather every piece of crucial evidence—police reports, witness testimonies, medical records—creating an unshakable foundation for your claim.

Uncovering the Truth: Proving the other driver’s fault isn’t just about assigning blame; it’s about justice. Your attorney skillfully demonstrates negligence, strengthening your case at every turn.

Valuing Every Loss: From mounting medical bills to lost income and the intangible pain and suffering you’ve endured, they ensure every dollar of your damages is accounted for—because every loss matters.

Taking on Insurance Giants: Dealing with insurance companies can be intimidating and exhausting. Your lawyer becomes your fearless advocate, rejecting lowball offers and negotiating fiercely for a fair settlement.

Fighting for You in Court: If negotiations fail, your attorney stands by you in the courtroom, presenting a compelling case to ensure your voice is heard and justice is served.

Hiring a skilled car accident lawyer is about more than improving your chances of success—it’s about reclaiming your future. With their expertise and dedication, you can focus on what matters most: healing and moving forward while knowing someone is in your corner, fighting relentlessly for your rights and peace of mind.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Bakersfield or Kern County, CA

Stay Calm: Take a deep breath. Remaining calm is your first step to managing the situation with clarity and focus.
Call for Assistance: Immediately dial 911 or contact the Kern County Police Department to report the accident and summon help.
Check for Injuries: Assess your condition and others involved to prioritize safety. If anyone needs urgent care, make it your priority to get them help.
Get Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, visit the nearest hospital in Kern County. Hidden injuries can surface later, and early treatment is crucial for your well-being.
Document the Scene: If it’s safe, collect critical details—exchange contact and insurance information, snap photos of the vehicles and accident site, and speak with witnesses for their statements.
Work with Authorities: Cooperate fully with law enforcement, providing honest and accurate information about the accident.
Seek Legal Support: Contact a trusted car accident lawyer in Bakersfield. They’ll provide expert guidance and help you build a strong case to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Taking these steps protects your health and safety and ensures your rights are safeguarded after an accident.

Can I File an Injury Claim for an Accident?

A car accident claim allows victims to seek justice and compensation for their injuries and losses. However, not everyone involved in a crash can file a claim. You are eligible if:

Someone else’s negligence caused the accident.
You sustained injuries or other damages due to the collision.
You have evidence proving the other party’s fault and the connection to your injuries.

Take distracted driving, for instance. Choosing to drive while distracted is a clear act of negligence, as no reasonable person would drive while on the phone, endangering the lives of others. If a distracted driver causes a collision due to their negligence, resulting in injuries, they are legally responsible for your damages.

As a victim, you can file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. However, without strong evidence—such as police reports, medical records, or witness statements—your case may be dismissed, leaving you without the compensation you deserve.

This is where hiring a car accident lawyer becomes helpful. They handle evidence collection, prove liability, and navigate the legal complexities of your case, giving you the time and peace of mind to focus on your recovery.

Who Is Liable for a Car Accident?

Establishing who is responsible for a collision is crucial for a successful claim. Liability can fall on various parties depending on the circumstances of the crash:

The Negligent Driver

In most cases, the at-fault party is one of the drivers involved. Drivers have a duty to prioritize the safety of others on the road. Negligence—whether minor or severe—can lead to devastating consequences. Common examples include:

Speeding
Distracted driving (e.g., texting)
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Reckless driving (e.g., tailgating, weaving through traffic)
Ignoring traffic rules, signals, or signs
Fatigue or inexperienced driving

If evidence, such as eyewitness testimony or traffic camera footage, proves another driver’s negligence, you are entitled to file a personal injury claim to recover your damages.

Multiple At-Fault Parties

Sometimes, more than one driver is at fault. Filing claims against multiple negligent parties increases your chances of recovering compensation. However, this adds complexity to your case.

An experienced car accident attorney can manage these challenges, investigate all aspects of the crash, and prove the liability of each negligent party to maximize your claim.

Other Negligent Parties

In some cases, liability extends beyond the drivers involved.

Local Government: Poorly maintained roads—like potholes, damaged signs, or uneven pavement—can lead to accidents. If hazardous road conditions contributed to your crash, you might be able to file a claim against the responsible government entity. Be mindful that such claims often have strict deadlines, typically within six months of the accident.
Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defective car part, such as malfunctioning brakes or airbags, caused the accident, you might have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer.

While you have the right to compensation for an accident caused by someone else, determining liability is rarely straightforward. Factors such as road conditions, vehicle defects, and negligent drivers can complicate your case.

By hiring a skilled car accident lawyer in Bakersfield or Kern County, you can focus on healing while they handle the legal aspects of your case, such as identifying liable parties, gathering evidence, and fighting to secure the compensation and justice you deserve.

What Types of Damages Can I Recover After a Car Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you can seek compensation for the damages you sustained and how it impacted your life. Recoverable damages typically fall into three categories, each designed to address different aspects of your losses.

1. Economic Damages: The Tangible Costs

Economic damages compensate for the direct financial losses caused by your accident. These are typically supported by documentation, such as receipts, invoices, or pay stubs. Common examples include:

Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency care, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
Health-Related Costs: Medical equipment, prescription medications, or in-home care services expenses.
Vehicle Repairs or Replacement: The cost to repair or replace your damaged car.
Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work during recovery.
Future Loss of Income: Compensation for reduced earning capacity resulting from long-term or permanent injuries.

2. Non-Economic Damages: The Intangible Losses

Non-economic damages account for the emotional and psychological toll of an accident. These losses, while harder to quantify, are just as significant. Examples include:

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical discomfort, chronic pain, or permanent disfigurement.
Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from the accident.
Loss of Enjoyment in Life: The inability to participate in hobbies, activities, or daily tasks you once loved.
Loss of Companionship: The impact of the accident on personal relationships, or in tragic cases, the loss of a loved one.

3. Punitive Damages: Additional Awards

Punitive damages are awarded in cases where the at-fault party’s actions were especially reckless, malicious, or intentional—such as driving under the influence or engaging in road rage. These damages serve to punish the offender and discourage similar behavior in the future.

While economic damages are relatively straightforward to calculate, assigning a value to non-economic damages like emotional distress requires legal and professional expertise. Similarly, proving eligibility for punitive damages demands a thorough understanding of the law and the ability to present compelling evidence of the at-fault party’s behavior.

A skilled car crash lawyer can assess every aspect of your case to ensure nothing is overlooked. They work to:

Quantify all financial and emotional losses.
Build a strong case for punitive damages, if applicable.
Negotiate with insurers to maximize your settlement.

With proper legal representation, you can pursue the full compensation you deserve, enabling you to rebuild your life after the accident.

How Much Does a Lawyer Charge for a Car Accident?

Personal injury lawyers typically charge around 33-40% of the settlement amount. However, several factors can affect their service fees, including:

Case Complexity: The more complicated your case, the more time and resources your attorney must invest. Complex cases demand extra effort, which can result in higher fees.
Duration and Effort Required: Legal fees often depend on how long your case takes to resolve. Straightforward cases settled out of court usually cost less, while drawn-out litigation cases require more time, resources, and expertise, increasing costs.
Experience of the Lawyer: Experienced auto accident attorneys with proven track records often charge higher fees due to their specialized knowledge and skills. Their expertise can lead to better strategies, smoother negotiations, and successful outcomes.
Legal Resources: Top-notch legal representation relies on access to advanced tools and resources. Attorneys may use specialized databases, case management software, and expert witnesses to strengthen your case.

While investing in an experienced and well-equipped attorney can make all the difference in securing fair compensation, many accident victims hesitate to hire a skilled lawyer, fearing the cost. Fortunately, most injury attorneys in Bakersfield and Kern County operate on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing upfront. You only owe a fee if they successfully win your case. This risk-free structure ensures that even the most experienced lawyers remain accessible, empowering you to seek justice without financial worry.

At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, our car accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay if we secure compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing—no risk, just dedicated advocacy. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Questions You May Ask

What Happens If I Am Partially Liable for an Accident?

In California, being partially at fault doesn’t prevent you from pursuing compensation after a car accident. As a pure comparative fault state, California allows you to file a personal injury claim regardless of your share of responsibility for the accident.

For example, imagine you were distracted by your phone while driving, and a speeding driver collided with your vehicle. If you’re determined to be 35 % at fault for the crash, you can still recover 75% of your damages. However, the speeding driver could also seek compensation for 35% of the damages.

Determining if you are receiving a fair settlement requires legal expertise when both of the involved parties share liability. They can help protect your rights, minimize your percentage of fault, and strengthen your case to secure the compensation you deserve.

Is There a Deadline for Personal Injury Cases in Bakersfield or Kern County?

Yes, there is. In California, including Kern County, the statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Under California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, you generally have two years from the incident date to file a claim.

Failing to meet these deadlines can completely bar your right to compensation, no matter how strong your case is. Our experienced Kern County car accident lawyer can help you handle these time constraints, ensure all necessary filings are completed on time, and protect your rights. Don’t risk losing your chance at justice. Contact an attorney promptly to secure your future.

What Are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries?

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering trauma, affecting drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. Here are some of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Often caused by a severe blow or jolt to the head, leading to cognitive and physical impairments.
Concussion: A milder form of TBI that can still cause memory loss, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Spinal Cord Injuries: This may result in paralysis or long-term mobility challenges.
Whiplash: Neck strain from sudden movement during a collision.
Facial Injuries: Cuts, fractures, or burns from broken glass, airbags, or impacts.
Broken or Bruised Ribs: Common in front-end collisions.
Sprains and Strains: Soft tissue injuries affecting muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Broken Bones and Dislocated Joints: Fractures in arms, legs, or shoulders are frequent in severe crashes.
Loss of Limbs: Amputations caused by severe trauma or surgical necessity.
Internal Injuries and Organ Damage: Often life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.
Penetrating Injuries: From debris or sharp objects entering the body.
Heart Attack: Triggered by extreme stress or physical trauma from the accident.
Bruising: Contusions from seat belts or airbags.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Emotional and psychological distress after a harrowing crash.

How Often Do Car Accidents Happen in Kern County?

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were a significant number of traffic accidents in Bakersfield in 2021:

Total Fatal and Injury Victims: 6,041
Alcohol-Involved Crashes: 869 victims
Motorcycle-Involved Crashes: 271 victims
Pedestrian Crashes: 302 victims
Bicycle-Involved Crashes: 106 victims

Speed-Related Crashes: 925 incidents
Nighttime Crashes (9:00 pm – 2:59 am): 689 collisions
Hit-and-Run Crashes: 577 accidents

Contact Our Bakersfield Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been in a car accident in Bakersfield or Kern County, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we are here to stand by your side and fight relentlessly for the compensation you deserve.

Our dedicated team simplifies the process, keeping you informed and supported every step of the way while safeguarding your rights. Here’s how we help:

Clear Communication: Keeping you updated and informed so you always feel empowered.
Expert Negotiation: Dealing with insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Coordinated Care: Connecting you with trusted medical providers ensures you get the needed treatment.
Stress Relief: Handling accident-related concerns so you can focus on what matters most—your recovery.
Fierce Advocacy: Proving liability, calculating damages, and passionately advocating for your claim.

You deserve peace of mind as you heal. We’ll handle every detail from start to finish, working tirelessly to secure the financial support you need to rebuild your life. Call us for a free case evaluation today, and let our compassionate team guide you on recovery.

Kern County Car Accident Lawyer Larry H. Parker