Injuries Rise from Fresno Two-Vehicle Crash

Injuries Reported in Two-Vehicle Crash at SR-180 and Leonard Avenue in Fresno

November 20, 2025 — Fresno, CA

Authorities responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of State Route 180 and Leonard Avenue in Fresno on Thursday afternoon. According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 4 p.m. and involved a black Ford Mustang and a sedan. Initial reports indicate that the vehicles collided under circumstances still under investigation. The force of the impact caused one vehicle’s bumper to detach, and debris was scattered across the intersection.

Paramedics and other emergency responders were dispatched to the scene. One or more individuals suffered injuries and received medical treatment at the site, with some possibly transported to a hospital for further care. No additional details on the extent of injuries or the number of people involved were immediately released. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet determined fault.

This intersection serves as a key access point for local and highway traffic, and collisions in such areas often disrupt travel and present heightened risks due to speed transitions and turning movements. Motorists in the area were advised to proceed with caution as crews managed cleanup and investigation.

Understanding Intersection Collisions in Fresno County

Intersections along high-speed corridors like SR-180 can be particularly hazardous. Common contributing factors in intersection crashes include:

- Failing to yield during left turns or at stop signs
- Misjudging gaps in oncoming traffic when entering from side roads
- Speeding or late braking on approaches to the intersection
- Distracted driving, including cell phone use
- Limited visibility due to sun glare, weather conditions, or roadway design
- Impaired driving or fatigue

While CHP continues to examine the circumstances of this collision, it’s important for drivers to remember that right-of-way rules, speed control, and vigilant scanning are crucial at intersections—especially where highway speeds intersect with local traffic.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Fresno

If you are involved in a crash like the one reported at SR-180 and Leonard Avenue, taking the right steps can protect your health and your rights:

- Seek medical care immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, and early diagnosis supports both recovery and documentation.
- Call law enforcement. A police or CHP collision report can be vital evidence for claims.
- Collect information. Exchange details with the other driver(s) and obtain contact info for any witnesses.
- Document the scene. Take photos or video of vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, debris, road signs, and traffic signals.
- Avoid admissions. Do not speculate about fault or make recorded statements to insurers without legal guidance.
- Notify your insurer promptly, but be cautious. Provide the basic facts while avoiding commentary on blame.
- Preserve evidence. Keep damaged property, repair estimates, medical records, and receipts related to the crash.

Common Injuries and Recovery Considerations

Intersection crashes can produce a wide range of injuries, including:

- Whiplash and soft-tissue strains
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries
- Fractures, dislocations, and joint injuries
- Back and spinal injuries, including disc herniations
- Cuts, bruises, and airbag-related injuries

Treatment may involve emergency care, imaging, physical therapy, chiropractic care, orthopedic treatment, or surgery. Follow your doctor’s instructions, attend all appointments, and maintain a journal of symptoms, pain levels, and activity limitations to support your claim.

California Law and Your Rights After a Collision

- Statute of Limitations: In California, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of injury. Property damage claims typically have a three-year window. If a governmental entity may be involved (for example, if roadway design or maintenance is implicated), a Government Claims Act claim generally must be filed within six months of the incident. Speak with an attorney promptly to preserve your rights and meet all deadlines.

- Comparative Fault: California follows pure comparative negligence. This means you can still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault, though your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

- Evidence Matters: The CHP collision report, scene photographs, traffic camera footage (where available), vehicle data recorders, and witness statements can be critical in determining liability.

Insurance Considerations and Potential Compensation

Depending on the case, avenues of recovery may include:

- Bodily Injury Liability Coverage: Compensates injured victims for losses when another driver is at fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Applies when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. Reviewing your own policy is essential, as UM/UIM can be a significant source of recovery.
- Medical Payments Coverage (Med-Pay): Optional coverage that can help pay medical expenses regardless of fault, often without copays or deductibles.
- Property Damage Claims: For vehicle repair or total loss valuation, plus rental car costs and diminished value in some cases.

Damages commonly pursued after a traffic collision include:

- Medical expenses (emergency care, follow-up treatment, rehabilitation, medications)
- Future medical care and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life and activities
- Property damage and incidental expenses related to repairs and transportation

Building a Strong Claim

A comprehensive approach can strengthen your claim:

- Prompt Medical Care: Timely treatment establishes the link between the crash and your injuries.
- Thorough Documentation: Save all records—medical bills, imaging results, prescriptions, therapy notes, and wage loss documentation.
- Accident Reconstruction: In more complex cases, experts may analyze vehicle damage, skid marks, and roadway conditions to clarify fault.
- Surveillance and Footage: Nearby security or traffic cameras may capture the collision. An attorney can move quickly to obtain and preserve this evidence.
- Communication Strategy: A strategic approach to statements and negotiations with insurers can prevent undervaluation of your claim.

How Avian Law Group Can Help

At Avian Law Group, we are committed to guiding clients through every stage of the legal process with skill, care, and clarity. Our experienced attorneys combine deep legal knowledge with a personalized approach to help achieve the best possible outcomes.

Following a collision like the one at SR-180 and Leonard Avenue, our team can:

- Conduct a prompt, independent investigation
- Preserve critical evidence and obtain the CHP report
- Identify all liable parties and insurance coverages
- Coordinate medical care and ensure thorough documentation
- Calculate the full scope of your damages, including future losses
- Handle insurer communications and negotiations
- Pursue litigation when necessary to secure fair compensation

We understand the stress that follows a serious crash—medical bills, missed work, vehicle repairs, and uncertainty about the future. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burdens so you can focus on healing.

This collision at SR-180 and Leonard Avenue serves as a clear reminder of how dangerous high-speed intersections can become when traffic volumes, visibility, and driver decision-making intersect. Even a momentary misjudgment or failure to yield can result in serious injuries and significant property damage, leaving victims to navigate medical treatment, insurance complications, and uncertainty about long-term recovery. As CHP continues its investigation into the circumstances of this two-vehicle crash, the individuals involved now face the difficult process of healing and securing the support they need.

At Avian Law Group, we know how overwhelming the aftermath of an intersection collision can be. From determining fault to securing medical care and dealing with insurance adjusters, victims often find themselves handling complex issues at a time when they should be focused on recovery. Our team is dedicated to conducting thorough investigations, preserving key evidence, coordinating documentation, and pursuing maximum compensation under California law—whether through negotiation or litigation when necessary.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision like the one reported at SR-180 and Leonard Avenue, Avian Law Group is here to provide skilled advocacy, clear guidance, and compassionate support every step of the way. Let us help you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.