[12-01-2025] San Luis Obispo County, CA – 69-Year-Old Woman Killed After Being Struck on Highway 101 On-Ramp at San Anselmo Road in Atascadero

A 69-year-old woman was struck and killed while crossing a Highway 101 on-ramp in Atascadero on Monday morning, December 1, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision happened around 10:20 a.m. on the southbound San Anselmo Road on-ramp.

CHP said Rachel H. of Atascadero was walking east on the sidewalk and was in the crosswalk when a Ford F-150 driven by 66-year-old Gary T., also of Atascadero, made a left turn onto the on-ramp and hit her. There were no passengers in Gary’s vehicle. Life-saving efforts were made, but Rachel died at the scene.

Authorities said neither drugs nor alcohol were suspected. The Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash.

Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers In Atascadero, CA

Pedestrian crashes at freeway on-ramps can be especially dangerous, often involving higher speeds and limited reaction time for drivers. After a fatal incident, families are left trying to understand how the collision happened, how investigations proceed, and what information may be important moving forward.

Pedestrian accident lawyers in Atascadero can help explain how California law applies to crosswalk and on-ramp collisions, as well as what investigators typically review in these situations. Legal guidance may also assist with organizing important documents, reviewing available reports, and understanding which options may be appropriate based on the circumstances.

If you would like to discuss your situation, you may contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident

Taking clear steps after a pedestrian collision may help protect your well-being and support the investigative process.

1. Call 911 And Request Medical Assistance
   Emergency responders can assess injuries, provide care, and create an official report that documents what they observed at the scene.
2. Document The Area
   If safe, take photos of the roadway, vehicles, crosswalk markings, traffic signals, and any debris. These details may help explain the conditions at the time of the crash.
3. Gather Witness Information
   Collect names and contact details from anyone who saw the incident. Witness accounts may help clarify the sequence of events.
4. Keep All Records
   Save medical documents, bills, receipts, and any communication related to the incident. These materials may help show the impact of the collision.
5. Consult With Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
   A lawyer may help you understand your rights, review available evidence, and explain what options may be available under California law. Legal support may also assist with addressing medical expenses, lost income, and other accident-related challenges.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Each year, thousands of pedestrians lose their lives on U.S. roads, while many more suffer serious, non-fatal injuries. The risk of pedestrian accidents is influenced by various factors, including vehicle speed, road location, vehicle type, and alcohol use.

In 2022, more than 8,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes across the United States, averaging about one death every hour. That same year, an estimated 140,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments for non-fatal injuries. Pedestrian fatalities accounted for roughly 20% of all traffic-related deaths, underscoring that people on foot remain one of the most vulnerable groups on the road.