Bicyclist hospitalized after collision at Blackstone and Gettysburg

Fresno Police said a 25-year-old bicyclist was taken to the hospital after being struck by a car at the intersection of Blackstone and Gettysburg avenues on Jan. 10. Investigators said the bicyclist was traveling eastbound, rode over a median and was struck by a northbound vehicle. Emergency responders provided first aid at the scene and the bicyclist was expected to be okay.

Police investigators said the bicyclist had a cell phone in her hand at the time of the collision and faulted her for not paying attention. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with officers. The intersection was temporarily closed during the investigation, causing localized delays on one of Fresno’s busier north-south corridors.

The collision puts a spotlight on everyday risks faced by people who bike in Fresno. Blackstone Avenue carries high volumes of vehicle traffic and median islands can pose hazards when riders attempt to cross midblock or against signal patterns. Distracted road users, whether on two wheels or behind the wheel, increase the likelihood of collisions in those conditions.

Beyond immediate injuries and traffic disruption, crashes like this have broader implications for public safety planning. City transportation officials and law enforcement balance engineering, enforcement and education to reduce conflicts between drivers and people on bikes. When a crash report cites rider inattention, it highlights the need for outreach on safe crossings and device-free riding; when drivers are involved, it underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance in high-speed corridors.

For residents who travel this stretch, there are practical considerations. Obeying traffic controls, using crosswalks and signalized intersections, and avoiding the use of phones while riding can reduce risk. Motorists should anticipate unexpected crossings and reduce speeds where bicycle and pedestrian movements are common.

Our two cents? If you bike along Blackstone or similar Fresno arterials, treat medians and crossings like intersections, stash the phone before you ride and make yourself visible. Small choices in attention and route selection can make a big difference in preventing a trip to the emergency room.