Early Tuesday morning, September 16, 2025, a pedestrian was fatally struck by a garbage truck in Escondido. According to police, the collision occurred around 5:40 am on Quince Street near Norlak Avenue, close to the Escondido Fire Department.
The man, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that the garbage truck was heading south on Quince Street at the time of the crash. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Police have stated that drugs or alcohol are not suspected, though the investigation is still ongoing.
If you or someone you love has been impacted by a pedestrian accident, the team at Singleton Schreiber is here to help you understand your legal options.
The Dangers of Pedestrian Accidents Involving Heavy Trucks and What Contributes To Them
Collisions between large vehicles and pedestrians are often especially deadly. Garbage trucks and other heavy vehicles weigh many times more than passenger cars, which means they strike with far greater force. Their high front ends also increase the risk of hitting a pedestrian in vulnerable areas like the chest or head, making survival less likely.
Several factors can contribute to these tragic accidents, including:
- Poor lighting or reduced visibility in early morning hours
- Large blind spots that prevent drivers from seeing pedestrians
- Narrow streets, unmarked crosswalks, or inadequate sidewalks
- Fatigue or distraction among drivers operating on tight schedules
Depending on the circumstance, multiple parties may be held accountable. In this case, liability could fall on:
- The garbage truck driver – if careless driving, distraction, or failure to follow traffic laws caused the crash
- The driver’s employer – for improper training, scheduling practices that contribute to fatigue, or failing to enforce safety protocols
- The company that owns or operates the truck – if it is a private waste management company responsible for day-to-day operations
- The city or municipal agency – if the garbage service is city-run, or if unsafe road design, lighting, or inadequate crosswalks contributed to the crash
- Maintenance providers – if poor or negligent truck maintenance led to mechanical failure that played a role
“When a large vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the results are often catastrophic,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber, a personal injury law firm. “Families deserve answers and accountability when negligence contributes to these tragedies. Holding the responsible parties accountable not only provides financial relief for grieving families but also promotes safer practices to prevent similar tragedies in the future.”
Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident
Losing a loved one in a pedestrian crash is devastating. While nothing can undo the loss, families may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek justice and compensation. These claims can help cover:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income and financial support the deceased would have otherwise provided
- Loss of companionship and guidance
If your family has lost someone in a pedestrian accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. The experienced wrongful death attorneys at Singleton Schreiber are ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice your loved one deserves. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
