San Jose, CA – On the morning of Saturday, May 10, 2025, a pedestrian lost their life in a hit-and-run collision on northbound U.S. Highway 101, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the incident took place around 2:30 AM near the Yerba Buena Road off-ramp, along the transition road near East Capitol Expressway.
A Spanish-speaking caller initially reported the emergency via a landline, prompting a swift dispatch of medical personnel and highway patrol units. Emergency responders arrived on scene after receiving reports of a woman lying unresponsive in the first lane of the highway. There were no vehicles located in the immediate vicinity of the victim, and authorities did not identify an associated vehicle at the time.
San Jose Fire Department personnel responded shortly after the call and attempted life-saving measures. Despite efforts at the scene, the woman was pronounced dead. Her identity has not been released pending notification of her family.
All southbound lanes of Highway 101 near the scene were temporarily blocked to facilitate a traffic break and investigation. The roadway remained partially blocked for several hours as the coroner responded and the scene was cleared. All lanes were reopened by approximately 6:05 AM.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol as the investigation remains active.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a bicycle accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
