Author: Andy Gillin Mar 10, 2025

In the early morning hours of Friday, a fatal pedestrian accident occurred, and the victim was fatally struck by two vehicles in northwest Fresno. According to reports from the Fresno Police Department, officers responded to the scene at approximately 3:30 a.m., where they discovered a man lying on the roadway near the intersection of Herndon and Brawley Avenues.

Fatal Pedestrian Accident in Northwest Fresno Claims One Life 1

Incident Details

In the early morning hours of Friday, March 7, 2025, a pedestrian was fatally struck by two vehicles in northwest Fresno. According to reports from the Fresno Police Department, officers responded to the scene at approximately 3:30 a.m., where they discovered a man lying on the roadway near the intersection of Herndon and Brawley Avenues.

Despite immediate life-saving measures attempted by first responders, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Both drivers involved in the collision remained at the location and are currently cooperating with investigators as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

Understanding Pedestrian Accident Risks in Fresno

Pedestrian accidents like this highlight the ongoing safety concerns for those traveling on foot, particularly during nighttime hours. Herndon Avenue is one of Fresno’s major thoroughfares with higher speed limits and significant traffic volume, factors that can increase the risk of serious or fatal accidents.

Reduced visibility during early morning hours and potentially drowsy drivers create a particularly dangerous environment for pedestrians. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant while walking near roadways, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime.

Legal Implications in Multi-Vehicle Pedestrian Accidents

Determining liability becomes a complex process when a pedestrian is struck by multiple vehicles. Investigators will likely examine several factors, including:

  • The exact location of the pedestrian at the time of impact
  • Whether the pedestrian was in a crosswalk or crossing against traffic signals
  • The speeds of the vehicles involved
  • Lighting conditions at the location
  • Whether either driver showed signs of impairment or distraction
  • Road conditions at the time of the accident

Cooperation between drivers and authorities will be crucial in establishing the sequence of events and determining how the accident occurred.

Multi-vehicle pedestrian accidents present unique legal challenges when determining liability and compensation. Investigators must establish the sequence of impacts when a pedestrian is struck by multiple vehicles and assess each driver’s potential negligence. 

California’s comparative fault principles may distribute liability among multiple parties, including both drivers and potentially the pedestrian, if their actions contributed to the accident. Forensic evidence becomes crucial in these cases, with investigators examining vehicle damage patterns, road conditions, surveillance footage, and witness statements to reconstruct the accident timeline. 

Each driver’s insurance policy may be responsible for the damages. In some cases, underinsured motorist coverage might be necessary if the at-fault parties lack sufficient insurance. 

Families pursuing wrongful death claims must navigate these complexities, ideally with experienced legal counsel who can coordinate with accident reconstruction specialists to establish a clear understanding of how each party’s actions contributed to the fatal outcome.

Rights of Families After Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

The family of the deceased pedestrian may have legal options available to them. In California, when a person is killed due to the negligence of others, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims can provide compensation for:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical costs incurred before death
  • Loss of the deceased’s financial support
  • Loss of companionship and emotional support
  • Pain and suffering

Families need to understand that California follows comparative negligence laws, meaning compensation may be affected by the degree to which each party, including the pedestrian, was responsible for the accident.

Pedestrian Safety Reminders for Fresno Residents

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety, particularly during nighttime hours. Fresno residents should:

  • Use designated crosswalks whenever possible
  • Wear reflective or light-colored clothing when walking at night
  • Avoid walking along high-speed roadways during darkness
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing
  • Remain alert and avoid distractions such as mobile devices while walking near traffic

Drivers should maintain vigilance, particularly during early morning hours when visibility may be limited and pedestrians might be more difficult to spot.

As the investigation continues, the Fresno Police Department urges anyone with information about this incident to come forward and assist in the investigation.

Fatal Car Accidents Settlement Calculator: Computing Fair Compensation

A fatal car accident settlement calculator serves as a valuable preliminary tool for families seeking to understand potential compensation following the loss of a loved one. 

These specialized calculators incorporate multiple factors that influence settlement values, including medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, the deceased’s earning capacity and expected lifetime income, dependent support obligations, and non-economic damages like loss of companionship. 

By inputting specific case details, these calculators provide an estimated range of potential compensation, helping families establish realistic expectations during an emotionally difficult time. However, it’s important to recognize that these tools offer approximations rather than definitive values, as each wrongful death case involves unique circumstances that can significantly impact final settlements. 

While calculators provide a helpful starting point, consulting with an experienced wrongful death attorney remains essential for accurately assessing the full value of a claim, accounting for jurisdiction-specific laws, and ensuring all compensable damages are properly documented and pursued. Call us now at +1 415-986-4777 to talk to the legal experts.

Moving Forward

“As someone who has dedicated my career to helping accident victims and their families, I understand the profound devastation that follows a sudden tragedy like this. If you’ve lost a loved one or suffered injuries in this terrible incident, please know that you don’t have to navigate the complex legal aftermath alone. While no legal remedy can truly compensate for such a profound loss, ensuring you receive fair compensation can provide financial stability during this difficult time and hold negligent parties accountable. I encourage you to seek professional legal guidance promptly, as evidence preservation and timely investigation are crucial in these cases. My team and I are here to handle the legal complexities with compassion and dedication, allowing you to focus on healing and remembering your loved one.”- Andy Gillin, GJEL Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been affected by this tragic accident, don’t face this difficult time alone. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we have decades of experience fighting for the rights of accident victims and their families throughout Fresno and California. 

Our compassionate team offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options. With our proven track record of securing substantial settlements for our clients, you can trust us to handle your case with the dedication and expertise it deserves. 

Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Richmond office to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward justice and fair compensation.

Resources and Support

For those seeking more information about this incident or traffic safety in Fresno, the following resources are available:

If you witnessed this accident, please contact the Fresno Police Department’s Traffic Investigation Unit at (559) 621-5066 to provide information that may assist in the investigation.

Author Photo

Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.