The incident happened at the intersection of 10th and G streets, authorities say
REEDLEY, CA, (September 10, 2024) - The Fresno County Coroner’s Office has identified the elderly pedestrian hit and killed by a motor vehicle in Reedley Tuesday morning.
Juanita Ayala, 77, was fatally struck by a motor vehicle at 10th and G streets in Reedley Tuesday morning, according to police.
Tragically, 77-year-old Juanita Ayala of Reedley died as a result of injuries.
A preliminary investigation found that Ayala was struck around 8:15 a.m. at the intersection of 10th and G streets. The Reedley local was crossing the street in a crosswalk at the time of the crash, police said.
The driver remained at the scene. Impairment is not believed to be a factor.
Authorities are investigating.
PEDESTRIAN CRASH INVESTIGATION
While it is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian, they still face everyday dangers in this country. GHSA projects there were 6,721 pedestrian deaths in 2020, up 4.8% from the 6,412 deaths reported in 2019.
“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.
Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal, noted that in cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent probe conducted by a seasoned lawyer to help protect the rights of the victim.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the results of the investigation, the family of Juanita Ayala may be entitled to a wrongful death claim for the loss of love and companionship.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal.
“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help protect their legal rights and best interests.”
Newsline's national legal analysts Candice Bond and Stefano Formica are experienced in fatal pedestrian accidents, and if you or a family member need help they are available for a free consultation to guide you.
(Candice Bond, Managing Partner, and Stefano Formica, Of Counsel, at Bond Legal, are the national legal analysts for Newsline. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).