A worker digging a cable line along Avenue 9 in Madera County was killed Wednesday morning.
The California Highway Patrol says the man darted in front of traffic to get a shovel and was struck by an oncoming car.
The woman driving the car said she didn't have time to stop.
The man died at the scene.
Avenue 9 was closed during the morning commute while the CHP investigated.
The driver has not been sited.
