Merced, CA – On the morning of Friday, August 1, 2025, a pedestrian collision caused fatal injuries to a man who was struck while attempting to cross Highway 99, according to KSEE.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 7:45 AM near the Atwater-Merced Expressway.
Officials say the man was crossing the southbound lanes of Highway 99 when he was hit by a vehicle. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the collision and transported the man by helicopter to a regional hospital. Medical staff later pronounced him dead as a result of his injuries. Authorities have not yet released his name, pending notification of his family.
The driver involved in the crash remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement. According to CHP, the vehicle was traveling at the posted speed limit at the time of the collision. Investigators stated that the pedestrian entered the roadway suddenly, giving the driver little time to react or stop.
No other vehicles were involved in the incident, and no additional injuries were reported. The roadway remained open during the response, although traffic was slowed in the area.
CHP is continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision. Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is encouraged to contact local authorities.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is subject to only partial liability in a pedestrian accident. Should that be the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
Merced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Merced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
