Texas Accident & Injury News
As holiday shopping increases, so does the risk of vehicle-into-building crashes.
Out-of-Control Vehicle Crashes Into Home, Kills 70-Year-Old Woman Sitting on Her Front Porch
According to a News4SanAntonio report, 70-year-old Janice Walker was sitting on her front porch when she was struck and killed by an out-of-control vehicle.¹
Police said the crash happened around 11 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11th, at a home on Da Foste Avenue near Interstate 10 on San Antonio’s East Side. A speeding car lost control, jumped the curb, and crashed directly into the front of the house.
Walker sustained critical injuries, including two broken legs, and was rushed to the hospital, where she later died. The driver fled the scene on foot. When located, police say he will face charges for collision involving death.
Did You Know?
Excessive speeding resulted in 320 fatal accidents statewide last year, according to TxDOT data.²
Vehicle-Into-Building Crashes Increase During Holiday Shopping: Here’s How to Stay Safe
Crashes like the one that killed Janice Walker are heartbreaking—and sadly, not as rare as many believe. Thousands of “storefront” or vehicle-into-building crashes occur nationwide each year, and incidents tend to spike during the holiday shopping season, when parking lots are crowded and drivers are distracted or in a hurry.
Why These Accidents Happen
Most vehicle-into-building crashes stem from driver error rather than intentional acts. Common causes include:
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Pedal confusion — Accidentally pressing the gas instead of the brake.
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Medical emergencies — Sudden health events, such as fainting or a heart attack, while behind the wheel.
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Distracted driving — Looking down at a phone, GPS, or bag while maneuvering near buildings.
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Speeding in parking areas — Failing to slow down when turning into lots or residential driveways.
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Impaired driving — Alcohol and drugs can reduce judgment and reaction time, especially at night.
Even a few extra miles per hour can mean the difference between stopping safely and crashing into a storefront, porch, or home.
Safety Tips for Drivers
During the holidays, parking lots and neighborhoods can become chaotic. Here’s how to prevent tragedies like this one:
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Slow down near pedestrians and storefronts. Take your time when entering or leaving parking spaces.
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Keep your foot placement steady. Avoid multitasking or shifting awkwardly between pedals.
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Watch for people sitting or standing near curbs. Porches and outdoor seating areas are closer to the road than many realize.
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Never drive impaired or exhausted. Fatigue and alcohol both dramatically reduce reaction time.
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Look all around before moving. A few seconds of caution can prevent a lifetime of regret.
As you search for parking during busy shopping days, try to find a pull-through spot whenever you can. It’s much safer than backing out—especially when parking lots are crowded and children or pedestrians may be walking behind vehicles.
Property Owner Safety Measures
Although drivers bear most of the responsibility, property owners can take proactive steps to protect visitors and residents. Installing bollards (short reinforced posts), heavy planters, or raised curbs in front of entrances and porches can act as physical barriers that stop vehicles before impact.
These safety features are increasingly used at storefronts, churches, and apartment complexes across Texas to reduce the risk of catastrophic injury and damage.
Legal Considerations
When a vehicle crashes into a home or business, liability depends on the cause. In most cases, the driver is responsible, but if a defective vehicle, unsafe property design, or negligent maintenance contributed, other parties could share fault.
Victims and families may be eligible for compensation covering medical expenses, property repairs, pain and suffering, and more. An experienced personal injury attorney can help investigate the crash and ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.
Injured by a Vehicle Crashing Into a Building? Call Shaw.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a vehicle-into-building crash anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Emergency Treatment
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Medical Bills
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Property Damage
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Lost Wages
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Pain and Suffering
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Wrongful Death
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And More
Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Texas personal injury attorney. No fees. No obligations. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.
Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.
We look forward to serving you.