Key Facts About the San Diego Pedestrian Accident on June 20

On June 20, 2025, a tragic pedestrian accident occurred at the Hawthorn Street off-ramp from Interstate 5 in San Diego, leaving one man dead after a devastating hit-and-run crash. According to FOX 5 San Diego, the collision happened just before 3 a.m. when a driver struck the pedestrian on the off-ramp, then fled the scene without offering aid. First responders arrived quickly, but the victim died from his injuries at the crash site. This heartbreaking incident highlights the growing dangers faced by pedestrians in busy San Diego corridors and underscores the importance of knowing your legal options after a serious accident.

Pedestrian accidents like this one can have life-altering consequences for victims and their families. In addition to the immediate physical and emotional toll, survivors and loved ones must often navigate overwhelming medical bills, funeral expenses, insurance disputes, and legal questions. At Gershen Law, we stand with victims of pedestrian accidents in San Diego, fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve. In this comprehensive guide, we explain what is known about the June 20 crash, explore the legal rights of injured pedestrians and grieving families, and share actionable steps to protect your future after a devastating collision.

If you or someone you love was harmed in a San Diego pedestrian accident, don’t wait to get help. Call Gershen Law today at (619) 492–5526 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation.

Details of the June 20 San Diego Pedestrian Accident

The San Diego pedestrian accident on June 20, 2025, shocked the community with its sudden and tragic nature. A man lost his life after being struck by a vehicle that fled the scene, leaving behind heartbreak and unanswered questions. The crash occurred around 3 a.m. at the Hawthorn Street off-ramp from Interstate 5, a location notorious for heavy traffic merging into downtown San Diego. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, the victim died at the scene.

Location of the Crash on the I-5 Hawthorn Street Off-Ramp

The collision took place at the busy Hawthorn Street off-ramp from Interstate 5, a corridor connecting the freeway to San Diego’s downtown core. According to a Google Maps view of the location, the off-ramp features high-speed traffic exiting the freeway and merging into city streets, creating a hazardous environment for pedestrians at any hour. This area has seen several past incidents involving pedestrians and vehicles, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.

Sequence of Events Leading to the Fatal Collision

Preliminary reports from FOX 5 San Diego indicate that the victim was either walking on or near the off-ramp when a driver struck him at high speed. The motorist did not stop or render aid, fleeing before authorities arrived. Law enforcement continues to investigate the sequence of events, seeking witnesses or dashcam footage that could help identify the hit-and-run driver.

Early Findings From San Diego Police Investigators

The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) and California Highway Patrol (CHP) are jointly investigating the accident. They have urged anyone with information to contact them immediately. Early indications suggest the vehicle involved may have sustained significant front-end damage. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and freeway cameras to trace the vehicle’s path after the crash. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, hit-and-run accidents remain a leading cause of fatalities for pedestrians in California, with over 300 deaths statewide each year.

Dangers of Hit-and-Run Crashes for San Diego Pedestrians

Hit-and-run accidents pose unique dangers because they delay lifesaving medical care for victims and hinder police investigations. When drivers flee the scene, victims are often left exposed to further harm from additional vehicles or environmental hazards. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that prompt emergency response can dramatically improve survival rates for pedestrians hit by vehicles. Sadly, in this case, the delay caused by the driver’s flight contributed to the tragic outcome.

Why San Diego Pedestrian Accidents Happen

Understanding the factors that lead to tragedies like the June 20 San Diego pedestrian accident is critical for prevention and accountability. San Diego’s bustling streets, complex intersections, and freeway off-ramps create numerous hazards for pedestrians. When combined with driver negligence, these risks can turn a simple walk into a life-threatening ordeal. By exploring the most common causes of pedestrian accidents, you can better protect yourself and learn when a driver’s actions cross the line into legal negligence.

Speeding Vehicles Are a Leading Cause of Fatal Pedestrian Collisions

Speeding remains one of the most dangerous behaviors on San Diego roads. Drivers who exceed posted limits have less time to see and react to pedestrians, greatly increasing the severity of any collision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding contributed to 29 percent of all traffic fatalities nationwide in 2022, and pedestrians struck at higher speeds face drastically lower survival rates.

In urban environments like downtown San Diego, speed limits are designed to account for heavy foot traffic, frequent crosswalks, and sudden stops. When drivers ignore these limits, they put every pedestrian in the area at risk. On off-ramps like the one at Hawthorn Street, speeding drivers pose an even greater threat because they may accelerate as they exit the freeway, failing to adjust to slower city traffic.

Distracted Driving Continues to Endanger San Diego Pedestrians

Distraction is a growing epidemic on California’s roads. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, distracted driving is a top cause of injury and fatal crashes statewide, including those involving pedestrians. Distractions come in many forms, including texting, eating, adjusting vehicle controls, or using in-car entertainment systems.

Pedestrians are especially vulnerable because they rely on drivers to notice them in time to stop. Even a two-second glance at a phone can mean a driver travels the length of a basketball court without looking, missing a crossing pedestrian entirely. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that distraction-related crashes cause thousands of deaths each year and many more severe injuries.

Driving Under the Influence Increases Risks for Pedestrians

Alcohol and drug impairment remain persistent threats on San Diego streets. Impaired drivers suffer reduced reaction times, poor judgment, and diminished motor skills, which can lead them to overlook pedestrians in crosswalks or on sidewalks. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism explains that even small amounts of alcohol can impair a driver’s ability to process visual information and make safe decisions.

In San Diego County, law enforcement agencies conduct regular sobriety checkpoints in high-risk areas, but impaired drivers continue to cause tragic crashes. The California Department of Motor Vehicles reports that DUI-related collisions are a leading cause of death and serious injury in California, especially for pedestrians who have no protection from the force of an impact.

Poor Lighting and Low Visibility Contribute to Nighttime Crashes

Pedestrian accidents often occur at night or during early morning hours, as was the case in the June 20 San Diego pedestrian accident. Poor lighting makes it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians until it is too late. The Federal Highway Administration has found that better street lighting can reduce pedestrian crashes by as much as 50 percent.

San Diego’s dense urban grid features many poorly lit intersections, alleys, and crosswalks. Pedestrians walking in these dark zones face heightened risks, especially if they are wearing dark clothing. The city has invested in lighting upgrades in some neighborhoods, but many corridors near freeway ramps and underpasses still lack adequate illumination.

Challenges of Nighttime Visibility in Downtown San Diego

Downtown San Diego features a unique mix of brightly lit commercial streets and dimly lit residential areas. Transitioning from one lighting condition to another can create moments of temporary blindness for drivers, a phenomenon known as adaptation glare. According to the National Institutes of Health, adaptation glare can delay visual recovery by several seconds, enough time to cause a devastating collision.

How Weather and Road Conditions Compound Low Visibility

Rain, fog, and glare from wet road surfaces can also impair a driver’s ability to spot pedestrians. The National Weather Service advises drivers to reduce speeds and increase following distances during inclement weather. Yet many San Diego motorists fail to heed these warnings, maintaining unsafe speeds and failing to look for pedestrians crossing near intersections or freeway exits.

Complex Intersections and Road Design Flaws Increase Risk

Many pedestrian accidents occur at complex intersections where drivers face multiple signals, lanes, or merging traffic. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, intersections with poor sightlines or confusing layouts dramatically increase the risk of pedestrian crashes.

In San Diego, intersections near freeway off-ramps, like Hawthorn Street at Interstate 5, present unique hazards because drivers often focus on merging with city traffic rather than scanning for pedestrians. Poorly marked crosswalks, faded lane lines, and missing pedestrian signals add to the danger.

The Role of Urban Planning in Pedestrian Safety

Road design plays a crucial role in keeping pedestrians safe. The National Association of City Transportation Officials recommends features like curb extensions, raised crosswalks, and pedestrian refuge islands to reduce crossing distances and improve visibility. Unfortunately, many San Diego intersections lack these proven safety features.

How Crosswalk Placement Affects Pedestrian Safety

Improperly placed crosswalks can leave pedestrians stranded in dangerous locations. The U.S. Department of Transportation emphasizes that crosswalks should align with pedestrian desire lines and feature clear markings, signage, and lighting. When crosswalks are installed too far from intersections or in areas without traffic calming measures, drivers may not expect to encounter pedestrians, increasing the risk of a crash.

Legal Rights After a San Diego Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one has been harmed in a San Diego pedestrian accident, you have important rights under California law. Understanding these rights can make the difference between securing fair compensation and being left to handle medical bills, funeral expenses, or lost income alone. Prompt legal action preserves evidence, clarifies liability, and ensures your family’s future is protected.

Who Can File a Claim After a Pedestrian Accident in San Diego

California law gives victims of pedestrian accidents the right to pursue personal injury claims against the at-fault driver or other negligent parties. If a pedestrian dies in a crash, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death lawsuit. According to California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, these family members include spouses, domestic partners, children, and certain dependent relatives.

For injury cases, the injured pedestrian has the right to sue for damages, including medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Filing a claim promptly is essential because evidence can disappear, and California’s strict deadlines apply.

Understanding California’s Statute of Limitations

In most cases, injured victims or families must file a lawsuit within two years of the accident date. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is outlined in California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. Missing this deadline generally bars you from recovering compensation entirely.

There are exceptions, such as when the at-fault party is a government entity. Claims against government agencies must be filed within six months under the California Government Claims Act.

Damages Available in a Pedestrian Accident Claim

Victims of pedestrian accidents in San Diego can pursue compensation for a wide range of damages. These include economic damages, like medical bills and lost wages, and non-economic damages, such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress. In wrongful death cases, families may also claim funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship.

Medical Expenses and Long-Term Care Costs

According to the National Institutes of Health, pedestrian injuries often require surgeries, hospital stays, and months of rehabilitation. California law allows victims to recover compensation for all necessary medical treatment, including future care costs related to permanent disabilities or ongoing therapy.

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

Injured pedestrians frequently miss work while recovering. If injuries cause long-term impairment, victims may face a permanent loss of earning ability. The California Department of Industrial Relations notes that proving lost income or future wage losses requires solid documentation, such as employer statements, pay stubs, and expert evaluations.

Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress

Non-economic damages can be significant after a serious pedestrian accident. Victims often suffer anxiety, depression, PTSD, or chronic pain that affects every aspect of their lives. These damages are subjective but compensable under California law, as explained by the California Civil Jury Instructions on personal injury cases.

Determining Liability After a Pedestrian Accident

Establishing who is legally responsible is a crucial step in any pedestrian accident claim. Liability often falls on the driver who struck the pedestrian, but other parties may also share responsibility depending on the circumstances.

When Drivers Are Held Liable

Drivers who fail to yield, speed, drive distracted, or commit other traffic violations can be held liable for pedestrian injuries. The California Vehicle Code § 21950 requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks. Failure to do so is clear evidence of negligence.

Government Liability for Dangerous Road Conditions

If poor road design, broken signals, or inadequate signage contributed to the accident, government agencies may share fault. Pursuing claims against cities, counties, or Caltrans is complex and requires following the Government Claims Act deadlines. For example, if a faded crosswalk or malfunctioning pedestrian signal led to the collision, you may have a valid claim against the responsible public entity.

Comparative Fault and Shared Responsibility

California follows a pure comparative fault system, as detailed in California Civil Code § 1431.2, which means injured pedestrians can still recover damages even if they are partially at fault. However, their recovery is reduced by their percentage of responsibility. For example, if a pedestrian is found 20 percent at fault for crossing outside a crosswalk, they can still recover 80 percent of their total damages.

Why You Need a San Diego Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often seek to minimize payouts or blame the victim. A qualified personal injury attorney will protect your rights, investigate the accident, collect crucial evidence, and negotiate aggressively with insurers.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners warns that insurance adjusters are trained to limit company liability, sometimes by pressuring victims to accept low settlements. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer knows how to counter these tactics and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a San Diego Pedestrian Accident

The steps you take in the minutes, hours, and days following a pedestrian accident can profoundly affect your health, safety, and ability to secure fair compensation. Whether you are the victim or a family member trying to help, knowing what to do can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of a successful claim. By acting quickly and intentionally, you can preserve crucial evidence, secure medical care, and build a strong foundation for your case.

Call 911 and Get Immediate Medical Help

Always call 911 after a pedestrian accident, even if injuries seem minor. Emergency medical services and law enforcement must document the scene. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, early medical evaluation can identify hidden or delayed injuries, such as internal bleeding or traumatic brain injury, which can become life-threatening if untreated.

When police arrive, give a clear and factual account of what happened without speculating or assigning blame. The official report generated by responding officers will become an essential piece of evidence when establishing liability.

The Importance of Thorough Medical Evaluations

Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries for hours or even days. A comprehensive medical exam establishes a documented link between the accident and your injuries. According to the Mayo Clinic, early intervention is especially critical for fractures, head injuries, and internal trauma.

Document the Scene and Gather Evidence

If you can do so safely, take photos and videos of the accident scene. Capture the location, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, vehicle damage, and your injuries. These visuals can be crucial in proving how the accident occurred and who was at fault.

Why Witness Statements Matter for Your Claim

Get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. Eyewitnesses can provide critical testimony to support your version of events, especially if the driver disputes fault. The National Safety Council recommends asking witnesses to stay until police arrive so their statements can be included in the official report.

Preserve Physical Evidence

Keep any torn or bloodied clothing, damaged personal items, and footwear worn at the time of the accident. These items can serve as evidence of impact force and injury severity. If possible, store them in a paper bag to avoid contamination.

Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters Before Contacting a Lawyer

Shortly after the accident, insurance companies will likely contact you for a recorded statement or to offer a quick settlement. The California Department of Insurance advises caution, as insurers often aim to reduce payouts by shifting blame or downplaying injuries. Politely decline to discuss details until you have spoken with a qualified pedestrian accident attorney.

Early Legal Advice Protects Your Rights

An experienced San Diego pedestrian accident lawyer can handle all communication with insurance companies, ensuring you don’t say anything that could harm your claim. Lawyers also advise you on how to document your recovery process and gather evidence to strengthen your case.

Notify Your Employer and Keep Records of Missed Work

If your injuries force you to miss work, inform your employer promptly and keep copies of all related communications. Maintain records of lost wages, missed shifts, and any short- or long-term disability paperwork. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, thorough documentation of lost income supports claims for compensation related to diminished earning capacity.

Track All Medical Expenses and Out-of-Pocket Costs

Keep receipts for hospital bills, prescription medications, assistive devices, transportation to medical appointments, and any modifications needed at home because of your injuries. These expenses may be recoverable in your claim under California law.

Follow All Medical Recommendations and Attend Appointments

Failing to attend follow-up appointments or ignoring doctors’ advice can harm your health and your legal claim. Insurance companies often use gaps in treatment as evidence that injuries are not severe. The Cleveland Clinic emphasizes the importance of adhering to your prescribed treatment plan to maximize recovery and avoid complications.

Contact a San Diego Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a San Diego pedestrian accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. At Gershen Law, we understand the devastation these accidents cause and the challenges victims and families face in the days, weeks, and months that follow. Our team is here to fight for your rights, hold negligent drivers accountable, and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Time is critical after a pedestrian accident. Important evidence can be lost within days, insurance companies begin building their defense immediately, and California’s strict filing deadlines mean that waiting too long can permanently bar your right to recover damages. Do not let an insurance adjuster undervalue your claim or pressure you into an unfair settlement.

Our firm offers compassionate, aggressive representation for victims of pedestrian accidents across San Diego County. We have helped clients in downtown San Diego, North Park, Mission Valley, and beyond. Whether your case involves a hit-and-run driver, a distracted motorist, or a dangerous intersection, we are ready to launch a thorough investigation and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

Schedule your free consultation today by calling Gershen Law at (619) 492–5526 or visiting our contact page. We do not charge any fees unless we win your case, so there is no risk to speak with us about your legal options.