Most Bakersfield car accident lawyers will admit that lethal highways is sill an issue that the city needs to address. According to the California Highway Patrol's Statewide Traffic Reporting System, in 2006, there were 36 car accident deaths in Bakersfield and 1,256 traffic accident related personal injuries. Alcohol related car collisions accounted for 21 fatalities and 134 personal injuries. Bakersfield roads and drivers even took their toll on motorcyclists, killing five and injuring 66.
In 2008, there were 14 percent fewer total car accidents in Bakersfield. Many attribute high gas prices for this decline, which in turn led to fewer discretionary car trips. Others say it's more vigilant law enforcement with tougher crackdowns on drunk drivers and speeders. Another positive trend showed that drunk driving car accidents also fell, by as much as 13 percent, according to the CHP.
Regrettably, Highways 46 and 65 remain two of Bakersfield's notoriously dangerous roads and among the most deadly in the nation, according to a Foxnews report. Highway 46 is the major road to the coast from Bakersfield. This narrow and dangerous two-lane highway has become known by locals as "Blood Alley" for the numerous traffic wrecks and deaths that occur on it. A large amount of vacation traffic competes with large semi- truck traffic on this highway and plans to widen it have been slow. Another problem is that Highway 46 leaves no margin for error. It has no shoulders, no passing lanes, and is poorly paved in some areas. The posted speed limit is 55 mph, which many drivers seem to ignore. Sadly, they also ignore the double-yellow lines that mean no passing allowed.
Similarly, the two lane stretches of State Highway 65 between Porterville and Bakersfield are just as dangerous. Frequent truck traffic reduces visibility and impatient drivers often risk their lives and those in other cars by crossing the centerline to pass.
A head-on collision at highway speeds is among the more lethal car accidents two vehicles can experience. Strategically placed turnouts for drivers who want to pass slower moving truck s could help reduce the number of Bakersfield car accidents on these deadly roads.
The cost of these California car collisions is staggering. A 2008 AAA report entitled "Crashes: What's the Cost to Society?" reveals that in most areas of the country, the cost of traffic collisions far exceeds the cost attributed to traffic congestion. Bakersfield car crash costs include such expenses as medical/emergency/police services, property damage, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. Bakersfield's estimated congestion cost is $66 million, while its crash costs are 15 times as high--estimated at over $1 billion.
The hidden costs of car accidents can approach the astronomical. These costs underscore the need for greater public awareness in driving responsibly, and in taking every reasonable precaution on these dangerous, car accident-prone highways.
Autor:
J. Bisnar
Since their founding in 1978, Bisnar Chase lawyers have represented over four thousand people in car, motorcycle, truck , pedestrian and other personal injury cases. The law firm has an "AV" rating, the highest level of professional excellence, by Martindale-Hubble. John Bisnar, who is the author of this article, and his partner Brian Chase each have a "10" Avvo rating, the highest possible. John was named a "Community Hero" by the United Way, while Brian was named a "Trial Lawyer of the Year" in 2004 and one of the 2007 Top 100 Trial Lawyers. More important than all their top ratings and awards are the testimonials their clients bestow on them. Aren't these the type of guys you want representing you? For more information on Bakersfield car accident lawyers, visit the Bisnar Chase web site http://www.bestattorney.com or call 1-800-561-4887.
Copyright 2009 Bisnar Chase LLP. All Rights Reserved
Added: June 10, 2009
Source:
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