Bakersfield news reports that two wrongful death lawsuits have been filed against Kern County after a sheriff ran into two pedestrians in Oildale while en route to the scene of a crime.

According to statements, the pedestrian accident occurred when Deputy John Swearengin was responding to a stolen vehicle report and began driving rapidly toward the alleged scene. Surveillance video shows Swearengin's patrol car allegedly speeding without operating its lights and sirens right before the accident occurred. The California Highway Patrol (CHP), which is still investigating the accident, has not indicated how fast Swearengin was driving.

A wrongful death lawsuit may arise in any personal injury situation where the careless or reckless conduct of another leads to the death of a loved one. In these instances, it may be possible for a family member such as a spouse, parent or child to bring a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation based on loss of love and companionship, lost past and future wages and to recover medical expenses. If you have questions concerning wrongful death claims, it is important to consult with an experienced and compassionate Sacramento personal injury law firm to answer your accident questions and determine your next steps.

Here, the wrongful death claims assert that the deputy was driving with "conscious disregard for the safety of the general public."

While filing a lawsuit may be the furthest thing from your mind after the loss of a loved one, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable California wrongful death attorney to protect your rights and ensure your family is taken care of after a tragedy occurs.

For more information or if you have lost a loved one as the result of a wrongful conduct of another, contact a dedicated Sacramento personal injury lawyer at Sette Law Office for a free initial consultation.