Madera County, CA – One pedestrian was killed and another was seriously injured early Thursday morning, July 18, 2024, in Madera County, as reported by KSEE.
The collision occurred around 3:45 AM on Avenue 12, just east of Road 25. According to California Highway Patrol (CHP) investigators, a driver in a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling westbound on Avenue 12 at approximately 55 mph when the accident happened.
The driver, who was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, struck a man and a woman who were walking in the middle of the roadway. The male pedestrian was fatally injured and died at the scene, while the female pedestrian sustained major injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The identities of the victims have not been released pending notification of their families.
This area of Avenue 12, east of Road 25, is a rural stretch with limited street lighting, which may contribute to the challenges faced by both pedestrians and drivers during nighttime and early morning hours.
The CHP is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Motorists bear an added responsibility, known as the “Duty of Care,” towards pedestrians due to their heightened vulnerability in car accidents, often leading to pedestrian fatalities. Motorists are expected to stay with injured pedestrians to aid in securing help from emergency services and to cooperate with authorities upon their arrival.
For those who have lost a loved one in a vehicular fatality, understanding that a Wrongful Death claim, guided by an experienced personal injury attorney, can provide compensation is crucial. This compensation can alleviate the financial strain of medical bills, burial expenses, and the loss of income for dependents of the deceased.
If the at-fault driver evades legal consequences, compensation might still be accessible through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Seeking advice from a personal injury attorney can help ascertain the most suitable options in such circumstances.