East Bakersfield, CA Personal Injury Lawyers
East Bakersfield, California, is home to thousands of residents and many businesses. However, like any other area, it is not immune to accidents that can cause serious injuries.
Whether it is a car accident on one of the area’s busy streets, a slip-and-fall at a local business, or a dog bite in a neighborhood, victims may face significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in East Bakersfield, CA, do not hesitate to contact our law firm today. Our personal injury attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and take steps to protect your financial interests. Contact Johnson Attorneys Group at (800) 208-3538 or call our local Bakersfield office at (661) 246-4466 to schedule a free case review.
Our Law Firm Handles Many Types of East Bakersfield Personal Injury Cases
In East Bakersfield, California, personal injury cases can arise from various circumstances. At Johnson Attorneys Group, we have years of experience helping clients with many different types of cases.
Some of the most common types of personal injury claims we handle include:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Uber and Lyft accidents
- Slip-and-falls
- Dog bites
- Premises liability accidents
- Wrongful death
Steps to Take Following a Bakersfield, CA Personal Injury Accident
According to recent Kern County annual statistics, 271 people were injured in motorcycle incidents, 302 pedestrians were injured or killed in accidents, and 106 bicyclists were harmed in 2021. These are just some of the many types of accidents that leave victims with serious injuries.
East Bakersfield, California, personal injury accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving you disoriented and unsure of what to do next.
The following is a suggested step-by-step guide to what to do following an accident:
- Ensure safety: Safety – yours and of others involved – is the top priority. If involved in a car accident, try to move to a safe location away from traffic or other dangers. Check yourself and any others involved in the accident for injuries.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent. A medical professional can assess your situation, provide treatment, and document your injuries – which is crucial to any future personal injury claims.
- Report the incident: Depending on the nature of the accident, you may need to report it to the proper authorities. For premises liability accidents, this would involve notifying the property owner or manager. The official report can be used later if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
- Gather evidence: If you are physically able, gather as much evidence as you can at the accident scene. This could include taking photos or videos of the accident scene and getting contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Evidence collected immediately after the incident can be critical to proving liability and damages.
- Avoid admitting fault: Do not admit fault or make statements such as “I’m sorry” that could be interpreted as accepting responsibility for the accident. Insurance companies may use these statements against you to reduce or deny your claim. It is best to let an attorney handle all communication with the other party’s insurer.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company. While providing honest and accurate details, avoid giving recorded statements or accepting a settlement offer without consulting a personal injury lawyer. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, so make sure to understand your rights before agreeing to terms.
- Keep detailed records: Maintain a detailed record of anything related to the accident and your injuries. This includes medical records, bills, lost wages, and any communication with the insurance companies. These records can be useful to share with your personal injury lawyer when it comes time to calculate damages and negotiate a settlement.
- Follow your doctor’s advice: After you seek medical care, follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely. Failure to follow prescribed treatments or attend follow-up appointments can not only hinder your recovery but also hurt your personal injury claim. Insurance companies can argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim if you do not stick to your doctor’s recommendations.
- Take a break from social media: After an accident, it is wise to be cautious about what you post on social media. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys could use your posts against you, arguing that your injuries are not as severe as you claimed. Avoid sharing details about the accident or your recovery online.
- Consult an East Bakersfield personal injury lawyer: One of the most important steps you can take after an accident is to contact a personal injury later. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
How to Choose the Right East Bakersfield, CA Personal Injury Attorney
When you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, choosing the right personal injury law firm can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. We know you have a number of personal injury law firms in the East Bakersfield area to choose from.
Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Experience handling your case type: Choose a law firm with experience handling cases like yours. For example, if you sustained a dog bite injury, you don’t want to choose a law firm with only experience in car accident cases.
- Track record of success: Search for a law firm with a proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts. This includes not just the cases won but also the value of those settlements. Don’t hesitate to ask the firm for case results or client testimonials.
- Open and honest communication: During your free initial consultation, pay attention to how well the personal injury lawyer listens to your concerns and explains your options. You should feel comfortable and confident in the attorney’s ability to represent you. The right law firm will be transparent, keeping you informed about the progress of your case and promptly answering any questions you have.
- Personalized attention: You don’t want to feel like just another case number. A good personal injury law firm will take time to analyze the unique aspects of your case. Your lawyer should be genuinely interested in helping you achieve the best possible outcome – not rushing you through the process.
- Transparent fee structure: Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Before signing any paperwork, make sure to clarify what percentage of your settlement a law firm will take and whether there are any additional costs you will be responsible for covering.
Contact an East Bakersfield, California Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in East Bakersfield due to someone else’s actions, you do not have to face this difficult time alone. By taking the right steps after an accident and working with an experienced personal injury attorney, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you need to recover.
Johnson Attorneys Group has years of experience in helping California residents recover top compensation for their injuries. We care about our clients and have secured over $100 million on their behalf. Our legal team is committed to protecting your rights and getting the best outcome.
Contact us today for your free, personal case review (800) 208-3538. If we don’t win, your case is free.