A traffic signal violation led to severe injuries for a motorcyclist after a BMW driver ran a red light in north Fresno on Sunday evening. The incident highlights the ongoing concerns about intersection safety and motorcycle vulnerability in the Central Valley.
Details of the Fresno Motorcycle Accident
The collision occurred at approximately 7:10 p.m. on February 2, 2025, at the intersection of Blackstone and Herndon Avenues. According to the Fresno Police Department, an 18-year-old driver operating a black BMW was attempting to make a left turn from westbound Herndon Avenue onto southbound Blackstone Avenue when they failed to yield at a red light.
The BMW driver crossed directly into the path of a 27-year-old motorcyclist who had the right of way. The resulting collision left the motorcyclist with serious injuries, requiring immediate emergency medical attention.
This intersection, known as one of Fresno’s busiest traffic corridors, has been the site of numerous accidents in recent years. The area experiences heavy traffic flow, particularly during evening hours when visibility can be compromised. Left turns at this intersection are regulated by dedicated turn signals, making the violation particularly concerning as it suggests the driver either misinterpreted or disregarded clear traffic controls.
The location of the crash, near several commercial establishments, means surveillance cameras may provide additional evidence for investigators and insurance adjusters reviewing the case. Initial reports suggest weather conditions were clear at the time of the accident, eliminating environmental factors as a potential contributing cause.
Emergency Response and Medical Treatment
First responders quickly arrived at the scene, finding the injured motorcyclist in the roadway. Emergency medical services transported the victim to a local hospital, where medical staff successfully stabilized their condition. The exact nature and extent of the injuries have not been disclosed.
The rapid emergency response played a crucial role in this incident, with Fresno Fire Department and EMS teams arriving within minutes of the 911 call. Paramedics provided immediate trauma care at the scene, following established protocols for motorcycle accident victims who often suffer complex injuries. Emergency responders also took precautions to protect the accident scene, establishing a safety perimeter and diverting traffic to prevent secondary collisions.
The intersection remained partially closed for approximately two hours while investigators documented the scene and collected evidence. Given the severity of the collision, the victim was transported to Community Regional Medical Center, Fresno’s primary trauma center, which specializes in treating severe motorcycle accident injuries. Police have indicated they will continue monitoring the victim’s medical progress as part of their ongoing investigation.
Legal Implications and Citations
The BMW driver remained at the accident scene and cooperated with law enforcement. Police cited the driver for running a red light, though additional charges may be pending as the investigation continues. Under California law, running a red light is a serious traffic violation that can result in:
- Monetary fines
- Points on the driver’s license
- Increased insurance premiums
- Potential civil liability for injuries caused
In California, running a red light carries significant legal consequences beyond the initial citation. The base fine starts at $490, but with additional penalty assessments and fees, the total cost can exceed $1,000. The violation also adds one point to the driver’s DMV record, which can remain for three years. Given the serious injuries in this case, the driver may face enhanced penalties and potential civil litigation.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 21453(a), failing to stop at a red light is considered prima facie evidence of negligence, which can significantly strengthen the injured motorcyclist’s personal injury claim.
Additionally, because the driver is 18, their age and relative inexperience may factor into both the criminal penalties and civil liability considerations. Insurance companies typically view red light violations resulting in injury accidents as serious infractions, often leading to substantial premium increases or possible policy cancellation.
Common Causes of Red Light Accidents
This incident represents a common scenario at busy intersections. Red light violations often occur due to:
- Driver distraction
- Misjudgment of signal timing
- Inexperience with intersection navigation
- Poor visibility or weather conditions
- Rushing through yellow lights
Recent traffic safety studies in Fresno County have identified several contributing factors specific to red light accidents at major intersections like Blackstone and Herndon. Young drivers, particularly those under 21, are statistically more likely to misjudge traffic signal timing or attempt risky maneuvers during yellow light phases.
Cell phone use remains a significant concern, with data showing a 40% increase in red light violations involving distracted driving over the past three years. Evening hours present additional challenges, as drivers may struggle with glare from opposing headlights or misinterpret signal changes in low-light conditions.
The pressure to complete left turns during peak traffic periods often leads to aggressive driving behaviors, with drivers attempting to “beat the light” rather than waiting for the next cycle. Additionally, some drivers mistakenly believe they can complete a turn even after their signal has changed to red, and not realizing this misconception puts motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users at particular risk.
Motorcycle Safety at Intersections
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable at intersections, where approximately 50% of motorcycle accidents occur. Key safety considerations include:
- Enhanced visibility through proper lighting and reflective gear
- Defensive driving techniques
- Awareness of blind spots
- Anticipating potential red light runners
- Maintaining safe following distances
Statistics from the California Highway Patrol show that intersection accidents involving motorcycles often result in more severe injuries than those involving passenger vehicles alone. In Fresno specifically, the rate of motorcycle accidents at major intersections has increased by 23% over the past two years.
Safety experts recommend motorcyclists practice specific intersection survival strategies, including positioning their bikes for maximum visibility, watching for tell-tale signs of distracted drivers, and maintaining an escape route at all times. The “SEE” strategy (Search, Evaluate, Execute) has proven particularly effective at intersections like Blackstone and Herndon, where multiple lanes and complex traffic patterns create additional hazards.
Motorcyclists are also advised to use their headlights during daylight hours, wear high-visibility protective gear, and resist the temptation to lane-split near intersections, even though it’s legal in California. Recent studies indicate that motorcyclists who consistently employ these safety practices reduce their risk of intersection accidents by up to 40%.
Legal Options for Injured Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists injured in accidents caused by red light violations have several legal options for pursuing compensation. These may include:
- Filing claims against the at-fault driver’s insurance
- Pursuing compensation for medical expenses
- Recovering lost wages during recovery
- Seeking damages for pain and suffering
- Obtaining coverage for property damage
In California, motorcyclists have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, though it’s advisable to begin the legal process much sooner. For incidents like this Fresno crash, where the fault is established through a traffic violation, injured riders may be entitled to significant compensation beyond basic medical expenses.
The state’s comparative negligence laws allow motorcyclists to recover damages even if they were partially at fault, though their compensation would be reduced by their percentage of responsibility. With serious injuries, it’s crucial to consider future medical needs and long-term impacts on earning capacity when calculating damages.
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize motorcycle accident claims by arguing the assumption of risk, making it essential for injured riders to document all aspects of the accident and their injuries thoroughly. Even if the at-fault driver’s insurance offers a quick settlement, riders should understand their right to negotiate for fair compensation that covers all current and future accident-related expenses.
Preventing Future Intersection Accidents
The Fresno Police Department continues to investigate this incident. This accident serves as a reminder of the importance of:
- Complete stops at red lights
- Careful observation before turning
- Yielding right of way as required
- Extra caution during evening hours
- Awareness of motorcyclists sharing the road
The City of Fresno has recently implemented several measures to improve intersection safety, particularly at high-risk locations like Blackstone and Herndon. These improvements include enhanced signal timing, better street lighting, and the installation of additional traffic cameras.
The police department has also increased enforcement efforts during peak accident hours, focusing on red light violations and distracted driving. Local traffic safety organizations are partnering with driving schools to provide specialized training for new drivers about intersection awareness and motorcycle safety.
The Fresno City Council is currently considering additional safety measures, including extended yellow light timing and protected left-turn signals at problematic intersections. Community feedback indicates that dedicated motorcycle awareness campaigns, combined with increased traffic enforcement, have shown promising results in reducing intersection accidents in other parts of the city.
Remember, the most effective prevention strategy combines infrastructure improvements, law enforcement efforts, and individual driver responsibility. All road users must remain vigilant and prioritize safety over convenience when navigating busy intersections.
Understanding Motorcycle Accident Settlement Calculators
Motorcycle accident settlement calculators serve as valuable preliminary tools for estimating potential compensation in accident cases, though they should not be relied upon as definitive predictors of settlement values. These calculators typically consider factors such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering multipliers.
However, the unique circumstances of motorcycle accidents often involve complex variables that calculators cannot fully capture. For example, the severity of injuries in motorcycle accidents tends to be significantly higher than in car accidents, with long-term implications for future medical care and earning capacity.
A skilled motorcycle accident attorney will look beyond basic calculator estimates to evaluate crucial factors such as the impact on quality of life, permanent disabilities, long-term rehabilitation needs, and the psychological effects of the accident.
In cases like the recent Fresno intersection collision, additional considerations might include the clear liability established by the red light violation, the young age of both the victim and the at-fault driver, and any permanent limitations resulting from the injuries. While settlement calculators can provide a baseline understanding, they should be viewed as just one tool in the broader process of determining fair compensation for motorcycle accident victims. Call us now at +1 415-986-4777 to talk to the experts.
Moving Forward
“As a motorcycle accident attorney with over 40 years of experience, I understand how devastating these intersection collisions can be for riders and their families. When a driver runs a red light and causes serious injuries, the physical, emotional, and financial impact can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one were injured in this Fresno accident, it’s crucial to protect your legal rights immediately. Evidence like traffic camera footage and witness statements needs to be preserved quickly, and you should not communicate with insurance companies before speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. Your focus should be on recovery – let us handle the legal complexities of your case and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Remember, California law provides strong protections for injured motorcyclists, especially in clear liability cases involving traffic violations. Contact our office for a free consultation, and we’ll help you understand your options for pursuing maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.” – Andy Gillin, Founding Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one were injured in this Fresno motorcycle accident, contact GJEL Accident Attorneys for a free, confidential consultation. Our experienced legal team has a proven track record of securing maximum compensation for motorcycle accident victims throughout California. We understand the unique challenges riders face after serious collisions, and we’re here to protect your rights while you focus on recovery.
There are no upfront costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us 24/7 at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Richmond office to speak with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney about your case. With over $950 million recovered for our clients and a 99% success rate, you can trust GJEL to fight for the full compensation you deserve. Don’t wait until it’s too late to take legal action – contact us today for your free case evaluation.
Important Resources and Contact Information
For accident reports, witness statements, or additional information about this intersection collision, the following resources are available:
Fresno Police Department
2323 Mariposa Mall
Fresno, CA 93721
- Non-Emergency: (559) 621-7000
- Traffic Bureau: (559) 621-5050
- Online Accident Reports: www.fresno.gov/police/report
Fresno Department of Transportation
2600 Fresno Street
Fresno, CA 93721
- Traffic Operations: (559) 621-8800
- Traffic Signal Issues: (559) 621-CITY (2489)
Report Dangerous Intersections
- Vision Zero Fresno: www.fresno.gov/visionzero
- Traffic Safety Concerns: (559) 621-8800
Emergency Services
Trauma Center Information: (559) 459-4220
Emergency: 911
Community Regional Medical Center: (559) 459-6000
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.