Albert Gomez Killed in Fresno Pedestrian Accident
The Woodlake resident was organizing a fundraiser for his wife's cancer treatment before the fatal collision on Highway 41
Albert Gomez of Woodlake was killed in a pedestrian crash on Highway 41 near Divisadero in Fresno on Wednesday, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The northbound vehicle struck the man after he entered the travel lanes, investigators said. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities.
No charges have been filed.
Gomez had been the primary caretaker for his wife, who is battling cancer. Before his death, he was organizing a car wash fundraiser in his hometown to support her medical care.
Community members are proceeding with the event, scheduled for Saturday morning at Jack's Liquor in Woodlake, to support the grieving family.
The crash remains under investigation.
The sudden loss of a family caretaker creates deep emotional and financial challenges for surviving relatives. While the community rallies to support the family, establishing liability remains a critical step after of a fatal collision.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Pedestrians do not stand a chance against a moving vehicle, which explains why fatal crashes involving people on foot tend to cause such catastrophic outcomes compared to typical traffic collisions. Funeral costs and lost income pile up fast for grieving households already struggling emotionally."
"A legal team can help ease that financial burden while pursuing accountability through the proper channels," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
Why did the collision occur on Highway 41?
Investigators will examine the lighting conditions, road design, and vehicle speed along the northbound lanes near Divisadero. Even when a pedestrian enters the road, drivers have a legal duty to exercise due care and maintain safe speeds.
An independent investigation helps determine the exact percentage of liability for all parties involved.
California wrongful death statute
Under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 377.60, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. California applies pure comparative fault. The statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of death.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and the decedent's pre-death pain and suffering.
"Insurance adjusters often reach out to grieving households within days of a fatal pedestrian crash, offering quick settlements before costs get calculated. Legal counsel can review those offers carefully and negotiate fair compensation for relatives," noted Stefano Formica, a national legal analyst for Accident News and of counsel at Bond Legal.