Woman struck by vehicle while entering parked car in downtown area
February 06, 2026 | Santa Barbara, CA
A 68-year-old woman from Ventura lost her life after being hit by a vehicle while attempting to enter her parked car in downtown Santa Barbara. Authorities identified the victim as Teresa Garcia.
Teresa Garcia, 68, died after being struck by a vehicle while entering her parked car in the 100 block of West Anapamu Street.
What Happened in the Crash?
Police reports indicate that the incident occurred around 5:20 p.m. on the 100 block of West Anapamu Street. Garcia was struck as she approached her vehicle. She was rushed to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital but succumbed to her injuries there.
The driver stayed at the scene and underwent evaluation for any impairment. Investigators have ruled out alcohol or drugs as contributing factors. The case is still under active review by local authorities.
- Date and Time: Friday, Feb. 6, at approximately 5:20 p.m.
- Location: 100 block of West Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
- Victim: Teresa Garcia, 68, of Ventura
- Vehicle Involved: Unspecified model, driver cooperative
- Outcome: Fatal injuries, no charges filed yet
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities remain a pressing concern on U.S. roadways. Distractions, poor visibility, and failure to yield are common causes. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), over 2,300 pedestrians were killed in the first half of 2024 alone.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Pedestrian Deaths (First Half 2024) |
2,304 |
GHSA Report |
Annual U.S. Pedestrian Fatalities |
About 7,500 |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Common Causes |
Distracted Driving (25%), Speeding (30%) |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
These figures underscore the need for heightened driver awareness, especially in urban areas with heavy foot traffic.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this involving pedestrian collisions, thorough investigations play a vital role. National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, emphasizes the importance of detailed examinations.
“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined,” said Bond. “An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a collision.”
Key takeaways from such analyses:
- Preserve evidence promptly to establish negligence.
- Consider environmental factors like street lighting and traffic patterns.
- Timely reviews can strengthen claims for compensation.
Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, notes that drivers generally must yield to pedestrians.
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Formica. “Family members may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a catastrophic accident.”
- Attorneys can guide families through legal processes compassionately.
- Avoid settling quickly with insurers, who may undervalue claims.
- Professional advocacy ensures fair treatment and maximum recovery.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).