A tragic pedestrian accident in Reedley has claimed the life of a 31-year-old man, raising important questions about roadway safety and legal considerations for accident victims and their families. The incident on Manning Avenue on Monday night, April 21, 2025, highlights the dangers pedestrians face on poorly lit roadways.
Details of the Reedley Pedestrian Accident
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the fatal accident occurred around 8:35 p.m. east of Englehart Avenue on Manning Avenue in Reedley. The victim was walking in the eastbound lane when he was struck by a Hyundai Elantra driven by a 22-year-old woman who was traveling in the same direction.
CHP officials noted that poor visibility likely played a significant role in the accident. The roadway’s lack of adequate lighting made it difficult for the driver to spot the pedestrian in time to take evasive action.
In a devastating turn of events, after the initial impact, the injured pedestrian remained in the roadway and was subsequently struck by a second vehicle—a Honda Accord driven by a 27-year-old woman. Investigators stated that the second driver was also unable to avoid hitting the man who was lying in the road following the first collision.
Emergency Response and Outcome
Emergency personnel responded promptly to the scene, and given the severity of the victim’s injuries, a Skylife Helicopter was dispatched to airlift him to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno for urgent medical treatment. Despite the medical team’s efforts, the man later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The rapid deployment of emergency services highlights the critical importance of California’s emergency medical response systems in traffic accidents. In cases involving severe trauma, the “golden hour” – the first 60 minutes following an injury – can be crucial for survival.
While the emergency responders acted quickly and efficiently in this case, the extent of the victim’s injuries from being struck by two vehicles ultimately proved too severe. This underscores the catastrophic nature of pedestrian-vehicle collisions, particularly when multiple impacts occur.
Investigation Status
The CHP has confirmed that neither alcohol nor drugs appears to have been a factor for either driver involved in the accident. However, as part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are awaiting toxicology results for the pedestrian. The investigation will likely examine multiple factors, including:
- Road conditions and lighting
- Vehicle speeds
- Visibility factors
- Pedestrian clothing and visibility
- Potential distractions for all parties involved
Investigations of this nature typically involve detailed accident reconstruction techniques, witness interviews, and analysis of physical evidence from the scene. CHP investigators will also review any available surveillance footage from nearby businesses and potentially examine cell phone records to determine if distracted driving played a role. The findings from this comprehensive investigation will be crucial for determining legal liability and identifying potential safety improvements that could prevent similar tragedies.
Legal Implications of Pedestrian Accidents in California
Pedestrian accidents like this raise several important legal considerations that victims and families should be aware of. California law provides strong protections for pedestrians, with drivers legally required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in most circumstances.
However, pedestrians also have responsibilities to exercise due care for their safety. Under California Vehicle Code Section 21950, pedestrians cannot suddenly leave a curb and walk into the path of a vehicle that is close enough to constitute an immediate hazard. This “comparative negligence” system means that responsibility and compensation in pedestrian accident cases are often determined by carefully weighing the actions of all parties involved against their legal duties of care.
Liability in Multi-Vehicle Pedestrian Accidents
Determining liability can become complex when a pedestrian is struck by multiple vehicles. In California, comparative negligence principles apply, meaning responsibility may be shared among multiple parties, including:
- Vehicle drivers
- The pedestrian
- Government entities responsible for road design and maintenance
- Other potential third parties
Poor Road Conditions and Government Liability
The CHP’s statement regarding inadequate lighting on Manning Avenue raises questions about potential government liability. California law allows claims against government entities when dangerous road conditions contribute to accidents, though such claims must follow specific procedures and strict time limitations.
Wrongful Death Claims
In fatal pedestrian accidents, the victim’s family may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. These claims can provide compensation for:
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of the deceased’s financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional support
- Pain and suffering
Safety Considerations for Pedestrians
This tragic accident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety, particularly on poorly lit roadways. Safety experts recommend:
- Wearing bright, reflective clothing when walking at night
- Using sidewalks whenever available
- Walking facing traffic when sidewalks aren’t present
- Carrying a flashlight after dark
- Staying alert and avoiding distractions like mobile devices
In rural areas like those surrounding Reedley, pedestrian safety requires additional precautions. Many rural roads lack proper shoulders, sidewalks, and lighting, creating significant pedestrian hazards, especially after dark. The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reports that pedestrian fatalities in rural areas often involve issues of visibility and lack of safe infrastructure.
When walking along rural roads, pedestrians should prioritize visibility by using reflective bands on arms and legs, as these moving parts are more likely to catch drivers’ attention than stationary reflective vests alone. Whenever possible, pedestrians should arrange for alternative transportation rather than walking along unlit rural roadways after dark.
When to Consult with an Accident Attorney
Following any pedestrian accident, victims or their families should consider consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney, especially when:
- Severe injuries or death have occurred
- Multiple vehicles are involved
- Questions exist about road design or maintenance
- Insurance companies are difficult to work with
- Liability is disputed
An experienced attorney can help navigate the complex legal landscape, ensure proper evidence is preserved, and work to secure fair compensation for victims and families.
The tragic pedestrian accident on Manning Avenue in Reedley reminds us of the dangers present on our roadways, particularly for vulnerable pedestrians. As the investigation continues, this incident highlights the importance of road safety, proper infrastructure, and the legal protections available to accident victims and their families.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, remember that legal help is available to guide you through this difficult time and help secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Fatal Accident Settlement Values
In wrongful death cases stemming from pedestrian accidents, families often wonder about potential settlement values. While no tool can provide an exact figure, fatal car accident settlement calculators can offer preliminary estimates based on key factors.
These calculators typically incorporate economic damages (medical bills, funeral costs, lost future income), non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of companionship), and jurisdiction-specific factors like damage caps. However, these tools should only serve as starting points for discussion.
An experienced wrongful death attorney will conduct a comprehensive case evaluation considering unique factors such as victim’s age, earning potential, dependent family members, insurance policy limits, and the strength of liability evidence. This personalized approach provides a more accurate assessment than any standardized calculator can offer. Call us now at +1 415-986-4777 to talk to the experts.
Moving Forward
“When tragedy strikes on poorly lit rural roads like Manning Avenue, families are often left not only grieving but also facing overwhelming medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income. As someone who has represented accident victims for over 40 years, I understand the profound impact these events have on families. If you’ve lost a loved one or been injured in a similar accident, please know you don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone. Our team can handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing. Time limits apply to these cases, particularly when road design or maintenance might be factors, so I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation as soon as possible.” — Andy Gillin, Founding Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys
Don’t face the aftermath of a pedestrian accident alone. GJEL Accident Attorneys has recovered over $950 million for injured clients throughout California, with a 99% success rate.
Our experienced legal team specializes in pedestrian accident cases and understands the unique challenges these incidents present, particularly in rural areas with poor lighting and infrastructure. We offer free, no-obligation consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Call us at+1 415-986-4777 or visit our San Francisco office to speak with a compassionate attorney who can evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options. Remember, California law limits the time you have to file a claim, so don’t delay in seeking the professional legal help you deserve.
Helpful Resources for Accident Victims
If you’ve been involved in or affected by a pedestrian accident in the Fresno County area, the following resources may be helpful:
- California Highway Patrol (CHP) – Fresno Area Office: For accident reports and ongoing investigations of incidents on state highways and unincorporated roads. Visit the CHP Fresno website or call (559) 705-2200.
- Fresno Police Department – Traffic Bureau: For accidents within Fresno city limits. Visit the Fresno PD Traffic Bureau website or call (559) 621-5050.
- Reedley Police Department: For local assistance with accidents within Reedley city limits. Call (559) 638-4250.
- Fresno County Sheriff’s Office: May provide assistance for accidents in unincorporated areas of Fresno County. Visit their website or call (559) 600-3111.
- California Office of Traffic Safety: Provides resources on pedestrian safety programs and statistics. Visit the OTS website.
- Community Regional Medical Center: Trauma services information for victims transported to this facility. Visit the CRMC website or call (559) 459-6000.
- Victim Services Division – Fresno County District Attorney’s Office: Offers support services for victims of crimes, including fatal accidents. Visit their website or call (559) 600-2822.
These resources can provide valuable assistance with accident reports, investigations, and support services during this difficult time.
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.