(Phoenix, AZ) A woman died early Thursday, January 15, after being struck by a car in a 26th Avenue accident.
Phoenix police said reports of the crash came shortly before 6 a.m. near 26th Avenue and Deer Valley Road, just west of Interstate 17. Officers responded after the driver involved called 911 to report the collision. First responders arrived and found a woman critically injured in the roadway. They transported her to a hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Investigators said video from the scene showed a Hyundai sedan with significant windshield damage. According to police, the driver had been traveling westbound on Deer Valley Road and stopped at a red light. When the signal turned green and the vehicle began moving forward, the woman stepped into the vehicle’s path, officials said.
Police did not believe impairment contributed to the crash. Authorities did not release the woman’s name, age, or additional identifying information, pending notification of family. Authorities temporarily closed the roadway while officers conducted an on-scene investigation. They lifted the traffic restrictions later in the morning, and Deer Valley Road has since reopened.
Analysis on the 26th Avenue Accident
When a fatal pedestrian collision occurs near a signalized intersection, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed. These reviews focus on pedestrian movement, driver response, and the timing of traffic signals.
Because the driver proceeding from a stopped position at a green light, investigators may examine the Traffic Control Signal Law. This law requires drivers to obey traffic signals while also proceeding cautiously through intersections. Even with a green signal, drivers are expected to remain alert for pedestrians who may enter the roadway unexpectedly.
Since police said the woman stepped into the vehicle’s path, authorities may also review the Pedestrian Right-of-Way Law. This law requires pedestrians crossing outside a marked or unmarked crosswalk to yield the right-of-way to vehicles that are close enough to pose an immediate hazard. Determining the pedestrian’s exact location and movement at the moment of impact is often central to these investigations.
Investigators may additionally consider the Due Care Law, which requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians and to give warning when necessary. Even when a pedestrian does not have the right-of-way, drivers are still expected to take reasonable steps to prevent a collision when a hazard becomes apparent. Together, these statutes help guide the review of evidence related to the 26th Avenue accident as police continue their investigation.
Guidance for the Family
If you are related to the victim, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request the official police report when it becomes available.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in fatal pedestrian collisions to better understand your options. Prioritizing emotional support, counseling, and help from trusted family or community resources can be an important part of navigating the difficult days ahead.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
