[04-19-2023] Fresno County, CA – 51-Year-Old Woman Fatally Struck by Off-Duty Officer in Sanger

A 51-year-old female pedestrian identified as Ana O. was killed by a vehicle in Sanger on Wednesday morning, April 19, 2023.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash happened on Clinton at Bethel, north of Sanger, just before 8:00 a.m.

The woman was walking her dog when a 45-year-old off-duty Clovis police officer driving a pickup truck struck her from the opposite direction.

Before authorities arrived, the officer performed CPR on the victim. At the scene, the victim was pronounced dead.

After the collision, the dog survived and was brought to the Fresno County SPCA with severe injuries.

It appears that the officer was not speeding, but distracted driving is still under investigation by the authorities.

Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Fresno

In California, pedestrians receive the same protections as motorists, cyclists, and passengers. If you or a loved one were injured in an automobile accident that was not your fault, you may be able to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit to seek financial compensation.

Our trusted Fresno pedestrian accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., have extensive experience and accolades advocating for accident victims. Our clients have been awarded compensation totaling $750 million.

Call (888) 488-1391 now or click the “Do I Have a Case?” to set up a free consultation with one of our attorneys.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

After a car accident, it might not be easy to think clearly. However, what you say and do at the accident scene can significantly impact how a subsequent lawsuit against the tortfeasor turns out. You could avoid lowering the value of your personal injury claim by following this advice:

• As soon as possible after the collision, dial 911, and request that an officer file an accident report.
• Take pictures of the vehicle that hit you, your injuries, the accident scene, property damage, weather conditions, and road conditions.
• Take a photo of the driver’s license, insurance card, and license plate of the at-fault party.
• Obtain the names and contact details of witnesses or anyone with information.
• Visit a doctor or other healthcare provider immediately, and describe your affected body parts to them.
• Keep a journal about your injuries and the healing process, including how you feel, the medical care you get, and the costs involved.
• Before speaking with a knowledgeable pedestrian injury attorney, avoid speaking with insurance adjusters or accepting settlement offers.
• Avoid sharing information on social media about accidents or events leading up to them.
• To discuss your case, immediately speak with a knowledgeable Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer!

Fatal Pedestrian Collision Statistics

The Governors Highway Safety Association reported that in 2021, there were 7,485 pedestrian fatalities, breaking previous records spanning more than 40 years.
Speed-related pedestrian deaths increased from 7.2% in 2019 to 8.6% in 2020. Speed significantly impacts pedestrian safety. Pedestrian fatalities increase sharply with vehicle speed, from 10% at 23 mph to 90% at 58 mph.

California has the most pedestrian injuries and fatalities. In 2018, the state saw more than 14,000 pedestrian injuries and 893 fatalities.
Always use sidewalks, abstain from alcohol and drugs, and carefully cross parking lots and driveways.