Bakersfield Personal Injury Lawyer

Award-Winning Bakersfield Personal Injury Lawyers

In the aftermath of an unfortunate accident, it can be challenging to navigate the complex world of personal injury law. The importance of having an experienced and dedicated Bakersfield personal injury lawyer by your side cannot be overstated. With the right legal guidance, you can achieve the best possible outcome for your case while focusing on your recovery.

Our firm has been helping injured Kern County residents for decades, achieving high compensations with favorable results. We are Harvard law graduates, former federal prosecutors and super lawyers that offer a zero down payment service with no upfront costs, until we win. Our attorneys practice personal injury law in Bakersfield for the sole purpose of giving back to the community and allowing access to world-class legal representation to everyday Americans.

We offer FREE Case Consultations, please contact our 24/7 legal team by calling 888-915-7572 or filling out our quick contact form.

Key Takeaways

• Engage an experienced Bakersfield personal injury lawyer to understand local legal requirements and maximize potential compensation.
• WCTL provides knowledgeable representation with over $1.6 billion recovered for clients, specializing in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, wrongful death claims and more.
• Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation to take the first step towards finding justice.

Understanding Personal Injury Law in Bakersfield

Given the frequency of personal injury cases in Bakersfield, California, it’s beneficial for injured individuals to gain a comprehensive understanding of the city’s personal injury law. From car accidents to medical malpractice, personal injury cases can vary significantly, each with its unique set of legal requirements and procedures. Familiarizing oneself with these aspects is advantageous for a successful claim, as it delineates the rights and obligations of those who have been injured due to the negligence of another person or entity.

Engaging a Bakersfield personal injury law firm can assist you in navigating the legal process, protect your rights, and strive for the best possible outcome.

Common Types of Personal Injury Cases

The diversity of personal injury cases in Bakersfield spans from car accidents to elder abuse. Each case type comes with specific laws and regulations, which are important to comprehend when seeking compensation. For instance, California’s dog bite liability law imposes strict liability on dog owners for any injuries caused by their dog’s bite. In contrast, wrongful death lawsuits involve legal action against an individual deemed responsible for another’s death. Having a knowledgeable Bakersfield personal injury attorney can help ensure that your case is handled effectively and efficiently, resulting in the best possible compensation for your injuries.

Another critical aspect of personal injury cases in Bakersfield is the severity of the personal injuries sustained. Motorcyclists, for example, are at a higher risk of serious injury or death due to the nature of their vehicles and the lack of protection offered compared to cars. In such cases, having a skilled Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyer can make a significant difference in securing the necessary compensation for recovery.

Similarly, victims of dog bites or sexual abuse may face long-lasting physical and emotional trauma, requiring experienced legal representation to ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.

Local Legal Requirements

Apart from understanding the specific laws for various personal injury cases, getting acquainted with Bakersfield’s local legal requirements is also important. One crucial aspect is the statute of limitations, which dictates the time frame within which a personal injury claim must be filed.

In Bakersfield, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident.

There are, however, certain exceptions to this rule, such as when filing a claim against the government, which requires submission within six months. Failure to file within the specified time limit may result in the forfeiture of your right to compensation.

Another critical factor to consider is California’s comparative negligence laws, which can impact the amount of compensation you may receive. Under this law, any award you receive will be reduced in proportion to the degree of your own contribution to the accident. As a result, the more you are found to have caused your own injuries, the lower the amount of money you will be able to receive.

Working with an experienced Bakersfield personal injury attorney can help you navigate these local legal requirements and maximize your potential compensation.

The Importance of Hiring a WCTL Bakersfield Personal Injury Lawyer

Hiring a West Coast Trial Lawyers (WCTL) personal injury attorney in Bakersfield is a smart decision for anyone dealing with the aftermath of an accident. Our firm’s knowledge of local laws and experience with local courts and insurance companies ensures that your case is handled effectively and efficiently, leading to better outcomes for you.

With our legal representation, you can focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.

Our Knowledge of Local Laws

The extensive knowledge our Bakersfield personal injury lawyers have of local laws is instrumental in achieving the most favorable outcome for your case. Every jurisdiction has its unique legal prerequisites and procedures, and understanding these intricacies is crucial for constructing a robust case, comprehending potential outcomes, and efficiently advocating for clients. While personal injury law in Bakersfield is subject to the same California law and statutes as other cities in the state, seeking counsel from a well-versed Bakersfield personal injury lawyer familiar with local laws and regulations is highly recommended.

Moreover, our attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers in Bakersfield are well-versed in the local rules of court and have experience working with the Kern County Courts system. This familiarity with the local legal environment allows us to effectively represent injury victims and advocate for their rights against unjust corporations and insurance providers. Our knowledge of local laws is instrumental in achieving success in your personal injury case.

Experience with Local Courts and Insurance Companies

When pursuing a personal injury claim in Bakersfield, it’s significant to have experience with local courts and insurance companies. Insurance companies often have formidable representatives aiming to minimize the compensation you receive. Our attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers understand the tactics used by these companies and are adept at countering their maneuvers to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Additionally, our experience with local courts allows us to navigate the legal process effectively and efficiently. We are well-prepared to represent your interests in court, using our knowledge of local legal procedures and our extensive trial experience to fight for your rights.

By choosing West Coast Trial Lawyers, you can trust that you are receiving the best possible representation for your personal injury case in Bakersfield.

Choose West Coast Trial Lawyers : The Best Personal Injury Attorneys in Bakersfield

Choosing West Coast Trial Lawyers gives your case the advantage of being handled by Bakersfield’s top personal injury attorneys. Our firm has a proven track record of success, with more than $1 billion recovered in settlements for our clients. We prioritize communication and accessibility, ensuring that you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.

With our experienced attorneys on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation our injured clients deserve.

Our team of award winning lawyers offer FREE Case Consultations 24/7, call 888-915-7572 or fill out our quick contact form.

Our Experience and Track Record

Our experienced and successful track record in personal injury cases speaks for itself. West Coast Trial Lawyers have provided legal counsel in Kern County for personal injury cases, such as:

• Car Accidents
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Brain Injuries
• Premises Liability
• Bus Accidents
• Bicycle Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Wrongful Death
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Dog Bites 
• Brain Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Uber and Lyft Accidents
• Food Delivery Accidents

We have won over 5,000 personal injury cases in the Bakersfield area, demonstrating our ability to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Our firm’s experience extends beyond our impressive track record. Our team of attorneys is dedicated to staying up-to-date on local laws and regulations, ensuring that we can provide the most effective representation for our clients. We also prioritize communication, making sure that our clients understand their rights and options throughout the legal process.

When you choose West Coast Trial Lawyers, you can trust that you are receiving the best possible representation for your personal injury case in Bakersfield.

Communication and Accessibility

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we understand the importance of open communication and accessibility for our clients. We believe in keeping our clients informed at every stage of the legal process, from the free consultation to the final settlement or judgment. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer any questions and provide support throughout your case.

Furthermore, we are committed to ensuring that our clients receive the best possible legal representation. This includes staying up-to-date on local laws and regulations, as well as maintaining open lines of communication with clients. By prioritizing communication and accessibility, West Coast Trial Lawyers can provide the support and guidance necessary to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Types of Cases We Handle in Kern County

Our Bakersfield personal injury lawyers handle a wide range of cases in Kern County, from car accidents to wrongful death claims. We understand that each case is unique and requires a tailored approach to ensure the best possible outcome. With our extensive experience and knowledge of local laws, we are well-equipped to handle even the most complex and challenging personal injury cases, fighting for the compensation our clients deserve. Below are specific cases we handle in Bakersfield such as:

• Car Accidents: Handling cases where individuals are injured due to negligent or reckless behavior by other drivers, poor road conditions, or defective automobile parts.
• Truck Accidents: Representing victims of collisions with commercial trucks, which may involve complex liability issues with trucking companies and their insurers.
• Motorcycle Accidents: Assisting motorcyclists who have been injured due to the negligence of other road users or defective safety equipment.
• Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents: Representing individuals injured while walking or biking, often involving serious or catastrophic injuries.

• Defective Products:
  • Representing individuals who have been harmed by defective or dangerously designed products, pursuing claims against manufacturers, distributors, or retailers.
• Premises Liability:
  • Slip and Fall Accidents: Representing individuals who have been injured due to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property.
  • Dog Bites: Handling cases where individuals are injured by aggressive or uncontrolled dogs.
  • Inadequate Security: Assisting individuals who have been attacked or injured on premises with insufficient security measures.
  • Swimming Pool Accidents: Representing victims of accidents occurring in or around swimming pools, including drowning incidents.
• Wrongful Death:
  • Pursuing claims on behalf of families who have lost a loved one due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

In personal injury cases, compensation can include both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible financial costs, such as medical bills and lost wages, while non-economic damages compensate for intangible injuries, such as pain and suffering.

Our seasoned Bakersfield personal injury attorneys can elucidate the types of compensation you might be entitled to and strive relentlessly to secure you the maximum amount feasible.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are designed to cover the tangible financial costs that result from an accident, such as:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Household services
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Property damage
• Diminished earning capacity

In a personal injury case, these damages can include past and future medical expenses, past and future lost wages, household services, vocational rehabilitation, property damage, and diminished earning capacity. Calculating economic damages in Bakersfield involves taking into account factors such as current and projected medical expenses, hospital bills, specialist visits, and lost wages.

Our attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers are skilled in determining the appropriate compensation for economic damages in your case. We work with medical professionals to assess the severity of your injuries and the potential long-term implications on your life. We also gather evidence, such as:

• pay stubs
• medical bills
• expense receipts
• employment records
• witness statements

This evidence helps us establish and substantiate your claim for economic damages.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages provide compensation for intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life. In Bakersfield, California, non-economic damages are typically calculated using the multiplier method and the per diem method. The multiplier method assigns a multiplier, usually between one and five, to the economic damages, while the per diem method calculates damages based on a daily rate for pain and suffering. It is important to note that there is a limit of $250,000 on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases in California.

Our team of experienced Bakersfield personal injury attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers understands the importance of pursuing non-economic damages for our clients. We work tirelessly to ensure that you receive fair compensation for the intangible injuries you have suffered, taking into account the specific circumstances of your case. Our goal is to help you achieve the best possible outcome and receive the compensation you deserve.

The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer in Your Case

A Bakersfield personal injury lawyer assumes a pivotal role in your case, spanning from:

• Investigating the incident
• Gathering evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Building a strong case
• Representing you in court

Our legal team at West Coast Trial Lawyers has extensive experience handling personal injury cases, and we are dedicated to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

By working with us, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case.

Investigating Your Case

One of the most crucial tasks of a personal injury lawyer is to conduct a thorough investigation of your case. This process involves:

• Collecting accessible evidence
• Conversing with witnesses
• Examining medical records
• Consulting with specialists

Our attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers are highly skilled in investigating personal injury cases and will leave no stone unturned in gathering the necessary evidence to support your claim.

In addition to collecting evidence, we also work to identify all responsible parties involved in your accident. This is essential to ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve from those who caused your injury. Our team is diligent in uncovering all potential sources of liability and will not rest until we have identified all responsible parties and held them accountable for their actions.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

One of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury case can be negotiating with an insurance company. These companies often have formidable representatives who are determined to minimize the compensation you receive. Our Bakersfield personal injury lawyers understand the tactics used by insurance companies and are adept at countering their maneuvers to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

We use various strategies when negotiating with insurance companies, such as:

• Making an initial settlement demand
• Declining the initial offer
• Challenging liability
• Opting to settle swiftly or delaying without explanation
• Requesting a recorded statement
• Attempting to make emotional points that bolster the case

By working with our experienced team at West Coast Trial Lawyers, you can trust that we will negotiate effectively on your behalf with insurance companies, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Representing You in Court

In some cases, it may be necessary for your personal injury case to go to court. Our Bakersfield personal injury lawyers are well-prepared to represent you in court if necessary, using their knowledge of local legal procedures and their extensive trial experience to fight for your rights. We understand the importance of a strong legal representation in court and will work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Throughout the legal process, our attorneys will:

• Guide and support you
• Ensure you understand each step and make informed decisions
• Provide the best possible legal representation for our clients
• Not rest until justice is served

With our experienced and dedicated team on your side, you can trust that your case is in the best possible hands.

What to Expect Throughout the Legal Process

Our Bakersfield personal injury attorneys will provide:

• Guidance and support throughout the legal process
• Ensuring your understanding of each step
• Empowering you to make informed decisions
• Being by your side from the initial consultation to the final settlement or judgment
• Providing the expertise and resources necessary to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

During the discovery phase, we will gather evidence, interview witnesses, review police reports, and investigate the case to build a strong foundation for your claim. As the case progresses, we will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and, if necessary, represent you in court. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, and we will work tirelessly to achieve this outcome.

Speak to an experienced Bakersfield Injury Lawyer Today! WCTL offers Free Consultations

Should you or a loved one endure a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence, feel free to reach out to West Coast Trial Lawyers for a complimentary consultation. Our experienced Bakersfield personal injury lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step toward achieving justice and recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Do Personal Injury Lawyers Charge in California?

Personal injury lawyers in California usually charge a contingency fee of around 25-33% of the settlement or award. Some lawyers may also charge an hourly rate or a flat fee.

What Is Considered Personal Injury in California?

In California, personal injury is any physical or emotional injury caused by the actions of another party.

What Types of Personal Injury Cases Do Bakersfield Personal Injury Lawyers Handle?

Bakersfield personal injury lawyers handle a wide variety of cases, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents, brain injuries, premises liability, and wrongful death claims.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Bakersfield?

In Bakersfield, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident.