UC Berkeley Collision: Two Injured, Investigation Ongoing

UC Berkeley Pedestrian Collision Sends Two to Hospital: What Happened and What Injured Pedestrians Should Know

Overview of the October 10, 2025 Collision

Two pedestrians, including a pregnant woman, were hospitalized after being struck by a white Dodge near UC Berkeley on Friday afternoon, October 10, 2025. The collision occurred at approximately 5:10 p.m. on Channing Way between Telegraph Avenue and Dana Street. Radio traffic indicates the vehicle sustained significant windshield damage, and the driver remained at the scene.

Both pedestrians were transported to Highland Hospital Code 3, meaning paramedics used lights and sirens due to the seriousness of the injuries. Witness reports suggested the male pedestrian was thrown about 20 feet by the impact. In response, authorities closed Channing Way between Telegraph Avenue and Dana Street and called out the Berkeley Police Department’s Fatal Accident Investigation Team to document the scene and begin a thorough investigation. Officials have not released further details about the cause of the crash, and the investigation is ongoing.

What We Know So Far

- Time and location: Around 5:10 p.m. on Channing Way between Telegraph Avenue and Dana Street, adjacent to the UC Berkeley campus.
- Vehicles and damage: A white Dodge with major windshield damage was involved.
- Injuries and response: Two pedestrians, including a pregnant woman, were transported Code 3 to a local trauma center.
- Driver status: The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities.
- Investigation: Police closed the roadway, conducted a comprehensive scene investigation, and continue to gather evidence and witness statements.

It is important to avoid speculation about fault while the investigation is ongoing. Determining what happened can involve scene measurements, vehicle inspections, witness interviews, and potential video evidence from nearby cameras.

Pedestrian Safety Context and Recent Statistics

Even with heightened awareness, pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain a serious concern nationwide. Preliminary national data for the first half of 2024 indicate approximately 3,304 pedestrian deaths in the United States, a 2.6% decrease from the same period in 2023. However, this remains substantially higher than levels seen a decade ago. Early analyses suggest pedestrian deaths in early 2024 were 12% higher than in 2019 and 48% higher than in 2014. These figures underscore the ongoing risks pedestrians face, particularly in dense urban and university-adjacent neighborhoods where foot traffic is heavy and sightlines can be limited.

Relevant California Traffic Considerations Near Campus Areas

- Right-of-way in crosswalks: California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections. Pedestrians should still exercise caution and not step suddenly into the path of a vehicle.
- Outside crosswalks: Pedestrians crossing outside marked or unmarked crosswalks must yield to vehicles that are close enough to present an immediate hazard.
- Speed limits: In business and residential districts, the prima facie speed limit is typically 25 mph unless posted otherwise. Near campuses and high-foot-traffic areas, drivers should reduce speed and exercise heightened vigilance.
- The “Freedom to Walk” law: California’s recent change decriminalizes certain types of safe mid-block crossings, but it does not change the duty of care. All road users must act reasonably to avoid collisions.

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Berkeley

1) Call 911 and seek medical care
- Report the collision immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated promptly, as internal or delayed-onset injuries are common in pedestrian impacts.

2) Document the scene if safe
- Photograph vehicle positions, debris, skid marks, traffic signals, lighting conditions, and visible injuries.
- Note weather, visibility, and any obstructions.

3) Identify witnesses and preserve evidence
- Collect names and contact information for any witnesses.
- Ask nearby businesses or residences if their exterior cameras captured the incident.
- Preserve clothing and personal items in their post-crash condition.

4) Obtain official records
- Request the police report once available.
- Save medical records, discharge paperwork, and imaging results.
- Keep copies of insurance correspondence and claim numbers.

5) Avoid recorded statements to insurers before legal guidance
- Insurance adjusters may request statements early in the process. Consider consulting counsel first to understand your rights and obligations.

6) Consider consulting a pedestrian accident attorney
- Early legal involvement can help protect evidence, coordinate benefits, and clarify next steps.

Pedestrian crashes often result in serious, life-changing injuries—and victims deserve strong legal advocates on their side. At Avian Law Group, we stand up for injured pedestrians and work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable. Our team has the experience, resources, and determination to help you recover the compensation you need for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. Don’t face this difficult time alone—reach out to Avian Law Group today for a free consultation and dedicated legal support.