Fresno, CA – Just after midnight on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, a pedestrian was struck and hospitalized at Polk and Gettysburg, right in front of Teague Elementary School, according to ABC30.
Authorities believe the collision occurred while both the pedestrian, a man in his 40s, and the vehicle that struck him were both traveling north on Polk Avenue at the time of the crash. A bicycle was found at the scene, suggesting the victim may have been walking at the time of the incident.
The driver fled the scene, leaving the victim in serious condition and neglecting the Duty of Care owed pedestrians by motorists. Emergency responders swiftly transported him to Community Regional Medical Center, where despite efforts, he was pronounced dead.
Police are actively seeking witnesses and any available video footage to assist in their search for the driver responsible for this tragedy. The road was temporarily closed as detectives investigated the crash and worked to identify the driver and the vehicle involved.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Those involved in a pedestrian crash should know that motorists are required to exercise an additional “duty of care” towards pedestrians due to their heightened vulnerability in car accidents, which more often result in pedestrian fatalities. Motorists are expected to stay with injured pedestrians to help secure help from emergency services and cooperate with authorities once they arrive.
While no amount of money can heal the pain of losing a loved one to a vehicular fatality, their sudden and unexpected passing often brings equally unexpected costs in the form of medical bills, burial fees, and the loss of income to support any dependents of the deceased. A Wrongful Death Claim, made with the help of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney, can provide compensation to address that financial burden.
Should the at-fault driver escape justice, compensation may be available from a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine what the best options are.
