According to the 2019 California Highway Patrol (CHP) legislative mandated annual police pursuits report, over 20% of people injured in police pursuit collisions in California were innocent bystanders. The actions that take place during these high-speed and dangerous chases leave victims exceptionally vulnerable. The aftermath of a police pursuit collision is traumatizing both mentally and physically. Still, the law protects officers to a certain level against being sued if someone is hurt or killed in the pursuit.
Ben Crump Law, PLLC, is here to make sure you are protected, too. Our Bakersfield police chase accidents lawyers are ready to advocate for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve for your losses.
If you are suffering or have lost someone to a police chase in Bakersfield, contact our office today at (844) 730-0233 for a free consultation. We do not take our payment until we have won your case.
Liability in a Bakersfield Police Chase Accident
Unfortunately, placing liability on an officer in police chases is difficult. California law somewhat protects peace officers under California Vehicle Code (VEH) §17004.7 b 1(d). However, VEH §17001 gives them responsibility in certain circumstances. These laws can be confusing, which is why it can help to enlist a personal injury attorney to help file your lawsuit.
Equally as stressful, there is a short time limit to file a lawsuit against a government entity in an accident. The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in these circumstances is six months, according to California Government Code (GOV) § 911.2.
Suspect Liability
There are cases where the suspect may be responsible for the accident damages. All drivers have a duty of care to drive responsibly, and if they do not do so, they can be held liable for the damages caused by their negligent actions.
This liability extends to all collateral damage, whether you were in a car or not. If you were a pedestrian, cyclist, or had property damage due to the fleeing suspect, it may fall on them to pay for the damages. In the case there is a death involved, things become much more complex. Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC, today so we can help you figure out which route is best for you to get the compensation you deserve.
For a free legal consultation with a police chase accidents lawyer serving Bakersfield, call (844) 730-0233
How a Bakersfield Police Chase Accidents Lawyer Can Assist You
Although the statute of limitations can be shorter in these circumstances, the process may be drawn out. You will need to collect information to build your case. You may be suffering and unable to do the things you could do before or are grieving the loss of a loved one. We are here to relieve you of that extra burden.
Filing claims and lawsuits against a government entity can be challenging. We want to make sure all parties involved are treating you fairly, no matter the situation.
You might also have to file a claim with an insurance provider. They are not always going to work in your best interest because they want to save money if they can. Therefore, it might help you to make sure you have someone who can negotiate and manage the claim. They have lawyers, too, and are always prepared in these situations, as you should be.
Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC, today and let one of our police chase accidents lawyers assist you. We are confident we can help guide you in the process of getting the most out of your lawsuit.
Bakersfield Police Chase Accident Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
California Insurance Laws
Unfortunately, suspects often flee because they broke the law. If the suspect gets away or does not have valid insurance to cover these accidents, you will have to file a claim with your insurance company to cover the damages.
California requires all licensed drivers to have the minimum financial responsibility of:
- $5,000 for property damage
- $15,000 for the death or injury of one person
- $30,000 for death or injury of multiple people
Uninsured motorist insurance (UM/UIM) is not mandatory in California but must be offered to you when purchasing a policy. If you are unsure whether you have this type of insurance coverage, it may be a good idea to find out. This covers losses if a negligent party cannot cover the damages or flees the scene of the crime.
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Damages You May Receive in a Police Chase Accident
Non-economic and economic damages are what you receive compensation for when filing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
Economic damages cover your medical bills, loss of income, the projected loss of income, prescriptions, therapy, and any monetary losses associated with the accident.
Non-economic damages are for non-monetary damages such as pain and suffering, loss of companionship, catastrophic loss, or money that a lost loved one would have used to help support or provide for the family.
Do not be intimidated by the process of filing claims and lawsuits to get compensation for your pain and suffering. You have rights, and we are here to help make sure you are getting what you need and deserve to cover these unfortunate events.
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Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC Today for a Free Consultation
A Bakersfield police chase accidents lawyer is here when you are ready. We understand your concerns and want to help you file and manage your case. We are advocates for justice, no matter who the negligent party may be. You should not have to continue to suffer due to injuries or death caused by police or any other party’s negligence, and we want to make sure you are protected.
Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC, today at (844) 730-0233 for a free case evaluation. We have won over $30 million in awards for our clients and want to extend the favor to you. Call us before your time runs out.
Call or text (844) 730-0233 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
