Big Sur, CA – On the morning of Tuesday, June 10, 2025, a vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision resulted in fatal injuries, according to KSBW, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 5:08 AM near the southbound lanes of Highway 1 at Rocky Creek Bridge.
Authorities stated that a pedestrian was walking within the southbound traffic lane when they were struck by a white full-size van. The driver, a man from Aptos, was unable to avoid the collision and remained at the scene following the incident. Emergency responders found the pedestrian lying in the roadway and confirmed the individual had died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Officials have not yet released the identity of the victim, pending notification of next of kin. The driver of the van is cooperating with the investigation, and impairment is not believed to be a contributing factor.
The circumstances surrounding why the pedestrian was in the traffic lane at that time remain under investigation. Traffic in the area was temporarily affected while authorities conducted their response and cleared the scene.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a bicycle accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
Martin Gasparian is the founder of Maison Law, a California Personal Injury Law Firm. Martin is a graduate of Georgetown University Law School and has been practicing law in California 2004. His practice focuses on helping injury victims know their rights and recover just compensation.
