Porterville, CA (January 3, 2025) – A hit-and-run accident involving a pedestrian occurred Thursday evening on westbound SR190 near SR65. Emergency responders were alerted to the incident at approximately 4:14 p.m., reporting a person struck by a vehicle and found lying on the side of the roadway.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a white Ford pickup truck initially stopped in the #1 lane to block traffic and protect the injured pedestrian. Responding units worked to secure the scene and provide medical care. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital with injuries. The extent of those injuries remains unclear.
Authorities issued a “be-on-the-lookout” (BOL) alert for any vehicle with front-end damage believed to be involved in the collision. Tow services, including Wallace Towing, were dispatched to assist with clearing the roadway.
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) and Porterville Police Department (PPD) were also notified and collaborated in the investigation. The westbound lanes of SR190 experienced temporary delays as the scene was processed.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional details about the suspect vehicle or driver have been released.
Our thoughts are with the injured pedestrian, and we hope for their swift recovery.
Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents in California
Hit-and-run incidents are particularly distressing due to the abandonment of injured victims without immediate help. Pedestrian accidents in California, especially on highways like SR190, often result in severe injuries due to the high speeds involved.
The California Highway Patrol reports that pedestrian-involved hit-and-run cases are on the rise, with urban and suburban areas seeing the highest numbers. Contributing factors often include impaired driving, distracted driving, and reckless behavior.
Victims of hit-and-run accidents face significant challenges, including medical recovery and navigating legal or insurance claims. Local authorities work diligently to investigate such cases, often relying on community tips or surveillance footage to identify the responsible driver.
For those impacted, it’s essential to seek medical attention, report the incident promptly, and consider consulting legal support to address compensation and accountability.
For more information or assistance after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.