Bakersfield Cyclist Gabriel Ortiz Killed by Drunk Driver

CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED

Drivers who get behind the wheel while impaired put everyone on the road at risk. Slowed reaction times and clouded judgment make intoxicated drivers far more likely to cause fatal collisions — tragedies that are almost always preventable. Between 2014 and 2023, drunk-driving crashes claimed roughly 11,000 lives each year on average, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Cyclists face particular risk on America’s roadways. Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that 854 bicyclists were killed in crashes involving motor vehicles, representing 2 percent of all traffic deaths.

“Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and many factors can contribute to serious crashes,” said Candice Bond, a Managing Partner with Bond Legal and an experienced bicycle accident attorney.

“It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire expert witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses. We carefully guide the family of the victim through the process,” she said, as reported by Accident Injury News.

Bond emphasized that launching an independent investigation as early as possible is critical to preserving evidence in cases like this one.

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

Depending on the outcome of ongoing investigations, the surviving family members of Gabriel Lopez Ortiz could be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim. In cases like this, survivors may be able to seek compensation for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress caused by a sudden and catastrophic loss.

Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, noted that families are often unprepared for the legal complexities that follow a tragedy like this. “Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights.”

“An attorney can be a valuable and compassionate resource to help guide a family during this difficult time, and ensure that those left behind receive the restitution they are entitled to,” Formica added.

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