San Jose, CA – On the evening of Wednesday, October 15, 2025, a pedestrian lost their life after being struck by a vehicle on State Route 87 North, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Authorities report that the collision occurred around 11:12 PM near the Curtner Avenue off-ramp. Investigators said a dark gray Honda Civic, traveling southbound, struck a male pedestrian who ran across the lane.
Emergency responders arrived to find the pedestrian lying in the center divide with severe injuries. Despite immediate medical attention at the scene, the individual was pronounced dead by responding personnel.
The driver of the Civic remained on the right-hand shoulder of the roadway and cooperated fully with investigators. Fire and medical units responded promptly, while CHP officers established traffic breaks and diverted northbound SR 87 traffic to allow for emergency operations.
Tow services and the San Jose Coroner’s Office were called to the scene, and the damaged Honda Civic was removed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities continue to review evidence and witness statements to determine the circumstances leading to the fatal collision.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as when they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is subject to only partial liability in a pedestrian accident. Should that be the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by foot and, if a 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 pedestrian 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.
