Bakersfield Vehicular Assault Lawyer
Aggressive Defense When You Need It Most
If you or a loved one has been accused of vehicular assault in Bakersfield, California, the stakes are high. These serious allegations can lead to long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, a suspended driver's license, and a criminal record that may impact every part of your life. At Humphrey & Thompson, our dedicated Bakersfield vehicular assault attorneys understand the complexities of these charges and are committed to providing a strong, strategic defense on your behalf.
We work closely with our clients to investigate every aspect of the case, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and protect your rights from the moment you contact us.
Schedule a confidential consultation today to discuss your case and learn more about how we can assist you.
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What To Expect After Arrest -
The Attorneys You Need On Your Side
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Thousands of Successful Cases
What is Considered Vehicular Assault in California?
In California, vehicular assault is not a standalone statute but often falls under other categories, such as assault with a deadly weapon (Penal Code § 245(a)(1)) or reckless driving causing bodily injury (Vehicle Code § 23104).
In legal terms, vehicular assault occurs when a driver intentionally or recklessly uses a vehicle in a way that causes or attempts to cause bodily injury to another person. This is a step above negligence—it involves deliberate or grossly reckless conduct that endangers others.
Common examples of conduct that could lead to vehicular assault charges include:
- Intentionally hitting someone with a car during a dispute
- Aggressive driving aimed at scaring or hurting someone
- Participating in road rage incidents that result in injury
- DUI crashes where serious bodily harm occurs
Depending on the facts, a prosecutor may charge you under various statutes, including:
- Penal Code § 245(a)(1) – Assault with a deadly weapon (a vehicle is considered a deadly weapon)
- Vehicle Code § 23104(a) – Reckless driving causing injury
- Penal Code § 191.5 – Vehicular manslaughter (if a death occurs)
Our team at Humphrey & Thompson has experience with all of these statutes and will help identify what you're truly facing and the best way to defend against it.
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Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Misdemeanor Sex Crime with Mandatory Sex Registration
Settled for no registration and time served after 5 days of trial ending in a mistrial. -
Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Felony Sex Crime
Client was charged with a felony sex crime . His charges were reduced to a misdeanor. He received no sex offender registration and community service instead of jail. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Abuse
Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Felony Sex Case
Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely. -
Case Dismissal
Rape
Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Battery
Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed. -
Jury Trial Acquittals
Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
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Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Vehicular Assault FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked question about vehicular assault charges:
Is a car considered a deadly weapon in California?
Yes. Under California law, a car can be considered a deadly weapon if it's used intentionally to cause harm, which can elevate simple assault to a felony.
What if I was under the influence at the time of the crash?
If DUI is involved, the prosecution may pursue enhanced charges such as felony DUI with injury or vehicular manslaughter. This makes your defense even more critical.
Can I still be charged if the injury was minor?
Yes. Any bodily harm—even a minor injury—can be enough for the prosecution to file charges. However, the severity of the injury will impact whether the case is treated as a misdemeanor or felony.
Will I lose my driver’s license?
Possibly. A conviction can result in suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. The DMV may also impose administrative penalties regardless of the court outcome.
Should I speak to police without a lawyer?
No. Always exercise your right to remain silent and contact a qualified criminal defense attorney immediately. Statements made without legal counsel can be used against you.
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True Trial Attorneys
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Responsive & Prompt Communication
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Impressive Track Record in State, & Federal Courts
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Client-Service Focused
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Certified Criminal Law Specialists
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- Joe S.
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.
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- Former Client
Jared and his staff, not exaggerating were on top of it all. If I called to talk to the girls in the front they handled everything right away, Jared reputation for being THE BEST matched him perfect. We had issues with the anger management classes and the staff really cared and helped us. Jared helped my son who was facing some serious charges but he genuinely cared about the whole truth and we got blessed tremendously! we are forever grateful and truly couldnt have imagined the outcome had we NOT hired him! Loved them thank you so much sincerely!
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- Rena B.
IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Cesar M.
They were very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. The paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt in their responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for their services. the Martinez Lugo family we loved them we really recommended thanks so much :)
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- Rob B.
He was straight forward, informative, and very easy to work with from inception to completion. I strongly suggest reaching out to Mr Thompson should you need the services offered by his office!
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- Randy K.
Due to the distance away from the Bakersfield area I was able to deal with the firm by phone and email. Phone service was very timely and they made me feel comfortable. If needed, I would use their services again and recommend this law office.
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- Aracele S.
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!
Call a Trusted Bakersfield Vehicular Assault Attorney Today
Facing a vehicular assault charge is a life-altering event. You need a legal team that will stand up to the prosecution, protect your rights, and advocate for the best possible outcome. At Humphrey & Thompson, we offer aggressive, results-driven representation backed by years of experience in California criminal law.
Call us at to take the first step toward protecting your future. Our dedicated team is ready to answer your questions and help you navigate this challenging time.
