Savannah Houtte died in pedestrian crash at Coast Highway parking lot

Pedestrian struck when two work trucks collided near Third Avenue

March 03, 2026 | Laguna Beach, CA

A tragic incident unfolded when a pedestrian lost her life after being struck by two work trucks in a parking lot. The Orange County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 25-year-old Savannah Van Houtte of Irvine. 

Authorities reported the crash occurred just after 10 a.m. on March 3.

What Happened in the Crash?

Savannah Van Houtte, 25, died after being struck during a crash involving two work trucks near Coast Highway and Third Avenue in Laguna Beach.

Preliminary investigations reveal that a CR&R trash truck collided with a Belshire Environmental Services vehicle at the 7-Eleven parking lot located at 31702 Coast Highway, near Third Avenue. Van Houtte was transported to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, where she succumbed to her injuries.

• Victim: Savannah Van Houtte, 25, Irvine resident
• Location: 31702 Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, near Third Avenue
• Vehicles Involved: CR&R trash truck and Belshire Environmental Services work vehicle
• Time: Just after 10 a.m.
• Outcome: Pedestrian fatality, and no immediate cause details released

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian safety remains a pressing concern, with vulnerable road users facing significant risks from motor vehicles. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths have increased at a rate nearly seven times higher than U.S. population growth over the past decade.

Common factors contributing to such incidents include:

• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Distracted driving in parking areas
• Inadequate visibility for pedestrians

Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in motor vehicle incidents involving pedestrians. In cases such as this, independent investigations can safeguard the rights of affected families.

“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.

Key takeaways:

• Drivers must exercise extra caution around pedestrians and always yield the right-of-way.
• Evidence preservation is crucial, as time plays a key role in understanding collision causes.
• Families may pursue wrongful death claims for damages including loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

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