Fresno Hit-and-Run Injures Pedestrian; Driver Fled

Hit-and-Run Near Ashlan and Blackstone Seriously Injures Fresno Pedestrian

A Fresno woman in her late 20s was seriously injured on Saturday evening, January 10, 2026, in a hit-and-run collision near the intersection of Ashlan Avenue and Blackstone Avenue. According to local reports, officers with the Fresno Police Department responded just after 6:00 p.m. to calls that a pedestrian had been struck. When first responders arrived, they found the victim in the roadway with significant injuries. She received on-scene medical aid and was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital, where she was listed in serious condition.

Police say the driver involved fled the scene immediately after the impact. A short time later, officers located a suspect vehicle in a nearby store parking lot and conducted a stop. A DUI investigation is reportedly underway. Authorities temporarily closed the surrounding area to traffic to document the scene and collect evidence. As of this writing, no additional details about potential charges or the identities of those involved have been publicly released. The incident remains under active investigation.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Collisions in California

California law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop, render reasonable assistance when someone is injured, and exchange information with others at the scene. Failing to do so is considered a hit-and-run. When the crash only results in property damage, leaving the scene is typically a misdemeanor. If someone is injured or killed, fleeing can result in felony charges. Beyond criminal exposure, drivers who flee may also face serious civil liability for the harm they cause.

In pedestrian crashes, the stakes are especially high. People on foot have no protection against the force of a moving vehicle, and even collisions at moderate speeds can result in severe trauma, including fractures, internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. When a driver flees, it delays medical assistance, complicates the investigation, and can worsen outcomes for the injured person.

Duty of Care to Pedestrians and DUI Considerations

All drivers owe a duty of care to others on the road, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. This means operating a vehicle with reasonable caution, obeying traffic laws, yielding at crosswalks, and remaining vigilant in areas with foot traffic. If a collision occurs, drivers must remain at the scene to assist and cooperate with law enforcement.

When alcohol or drugs are suspected, DUI laws come into play. Driving under the influence not only exposes a motorist to criminal charges but can also increase civil liability, including punitive damages in certain cases where the conduct is found to be egregious. While the investigation in the Fresno incident is ongoing, a DUI allegation underscores the gravity of the event and the importance of a thorough evidence-based inquiry.

What Victims and Families Should Know After a Pedestrian Crash

- Immediate medical care and documentation: Even if injuries don’t seem life-threatening, prompt evaluation is critical. Medical records serve as essential evidence linking the crash to the injuries.

- Preserve evidence: Photos of the scene, vehicle damage, debris, skid marks, and lighting conditions can be invaluable. In areas like Ashlan and Blackstone, nearby businesses and traffic cameras may have video footage that must be requested quickly before it’s deleted.

- Witness statements: Independent witnesses can help establish how the collision occurred. Gathering names and contact information early can make a significant difference.

- Police report: Request the traffic collision report number and obtain a copy when available. This document can contain key observations, diagrams, and statements.

- Follow-up care: Adhering to medical recommendations, attending follow-up appointments, and maintaining a record of symptoms and limitations supports both recovery and the legal claim.

Insurance and Compensation Issues in Hit-and-Run Cases

- Bodily injury liability coverage: If the driver is identified and insured, their liability policy typically addresses medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages up to the policy limits.

- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM): If the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be identified, an injured pedestrian may be able to pursue a claim under their own auto policy’s UM/UIM coverage. This often applies even if the pedestrian was not driving at the time.

- Medical payments (Med-Pay): Some auto policies provide Med-Pay benefits that can help with initial medical bills regardless of fault.

- Health insurance and liens: Health insurers may pay for treatment and later assert a lien on any settlement. Navigating these liens is an important part of maximizing net recovery.

- Restitution in criminal cases: If criminal charges are filed, a court may order restitution, but this does not replace the broader compensation available in a civil claim.

Determining Fault and Comparative Negligence

California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning compensation can be adjusted based on each party’s share of fault. For example, if evidence shows a pedestrian was outside a crosswalk or the visibility was poor, insurers may argue that the pedestrian shares responsibility. However, drivers still have a duty to exercise caution, adjust speed to conditions, and remain aware of pedestrian activity, particularly in busy corridors. Even when comparative negligence is at issue, injured pedestrians may recover damages proportionate to the driver’s fault.

Potential Claims Beyond the At-Fault Driver

While the driver is usually the primary focus, a thorough investigation considers all contributing factors:

- Roadway design and maintenance: In rare cases, hazardous road design, malfunctioning signals, or inadequate lighting may contribute to a collision. Claims against public entities have strict deadlines—often six months from the date of the incident to file a government claim—so prompt legal action is critical.

- Vehicle defects: If brake failure or another mechanical defect played a role, a product liability claim may be explored.

- Liquor liability: California’s dram shop laws are narrow, but liability may exist when alcohol is furnished to an obviously intoxicated minor who then causes harm.

Common Damages in Pedestrian Injury Cases

- Medical expenses (past and future), including surgery, rehabilitation, and assistive devices
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring, disfigurement, and permanent disability
- Home modifications and long-term care needs
- Out-of-pocket costs, transportation, and caregiving expenses

Leaving the scene of a pedestrian crash is a serious crime and can significantly increase both criminal and civil liability. Evidence gathered in the hours immediately after impact—video footage, witness statements, and vehicle data—often plays a critical role.

Avian Law Group works to ensure that injured pedestrians are not left carrying the consequences of someone else’s reckless decision.