Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Chris Chaney, known for his vigorous advocacy in hit-and-run defense cases, recently appeared on Eyewitness News in Bakersfield, California to discuss a startling new study conducted by his firm, the Law Offices of Chris Chaney, which ranks 75 U.S. cities based on fatal hit-and-run incidents.
The study, which has drawn national attention, revealed that Bakersfield ranks 14th nationwide in fatal hit-and-run accidents—a ranking that has sparked growing concern across Kern County.
The report analyzed the most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and ranked U.S. cities based on the number of fatal hit-and-run accidents per capita. With 2.79 fatal hit-and-run accidents per 100,000 residents, Bakersfield not only ranked high—but surpassed much larger metropolitan areas, raising serious concerns about road safety and enforcement in Kern County.
Neighboring counties Fresno and Merced also ranked high on the list, with Fresno County at 15th and Merced County at 16th nationwide. The data highlights a troubling concentration of deadly hit-and-run incidents in the Central Valley, pointing to broader concerns over traffic safety and enforcement in the region.
As a veteran criminal defense lawyer, Chris Chaney brings a unique perspective to the conversation. His firm has handled numerous hit-and-run cases throughout California, and he understands both the human impact of these tragedies and the legal complexities involved.
“In many of these cases, people flee because they panic,” Chaney said. “They fear the legal consequences—even if the accident wasn’t their fault. That’s why it’s important to have a justice system that balances accountability with understanding.”
Read the full Eyewitness News article here: https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/kern-county-ranks-14th-in-national-study-of-fatal-hit-and-runs-sparking-local-concern
See which counties made the top 75 on the list: https://www.ceclaw.net/75-us-cities-with-the-most-fatal-hit-and-run-accidents/
