Fresno, CA (October 26, 2024) – On October 26, 2024, Rudy Reyes, a 34-year-old man, was struck by a vehicle while crossing Blackstone Avenue near Swift Avenue in Fresno, close to an In-N-Out restaurant.
Accident Details: Police reports indicate that Reyes walked into the roadway as a northbound vehicle approached, leading to the collision. Reyes was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries on October 28. Authorities have confirmed that the driver remained at the scene and was not impaired by drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic accident raises several legal considerations regarding pedestrian and driver responsibilities.
Driver Behavior: Drivers must exercise due caution, especially in areas where pedestrian traffic may be expected. In this case, an investigation may further assess whether any factors influenced the collision, such as distraction, fatigue, or speeding. Any of these behaviors may make the driver responsible for the accident.
Wrongful Death: Reyes’s family may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Such claims can help ease financial burdens while holding responsible parties accountable for negligence.
Comparative Negligence: Pedestrians must follow traffic laws, including using designated crosswalks where available. Crossing outside marked crosswalks, especially in busy areas, can present additional hazards, potentially affecting liability. In this case, the facts indicate Reyes walked into the roadway. If he was not crossing in a designated crosswalk, he might be partially at fault for the accident under California’s comparative negligence law. His family may still be able to recover compensation, although it may be reduced based on his portion of fault.
I offer my condolences to Rudy Reyes’ family and friends during this difficult time. Losing a loved one in such a sudden way is incredibly painful, and I hope they find strength and support in the days ahead.
Source: Your Central Valley