Woman Hit and Killed by a Garbage Truck in Early-Morning Bicycle Accident on the Far East Side

According to a KSAT News report, 48-year-old Christina Moore was hit and killed by a garbage truck while riding her bicycle on the East Side.

Police say the crash happened around 6:30 a.m. on October 31st in the 6300 block of westbound U.S. Highway 87 near a Tiger Sanitation complex. Moore was riding in an area with poor street lighting when she attempted to cross a private driveway as a garbage truck was pulling out. The truck struck her, knocking her from the bike and running her over.

She was pronounced dead at the scene. The garbage truck driver stayed and cooperated with investigators. No charges were filed.

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Did You Know?

19,156 accidents statewide last year were caused by a driver failing to yield the right of way in a private drive.

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Garbage Truck Accidents in San Antonio: What You Need to Know

Collisions involving large commercial vehicles are always serious, but when they involve cyclists or pedestrians, the consequences are often fatal. The death of Christina Moore highlights just how vulnerable cyclists are—especially during early morning hours when visibility is low and garbage trucks are beginning their routes.

Why Garbage Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous

Garbage and sanitation trucks are essential for city operations, but their size, weight, and visibility limitations make them uniquely hazardous. Many operate before sunrise, a time when both drivers and cyclists face reduced visibility.

Common risk factors include:

• Large blind spots – Significant blind zones exist behind and along both sides of the truck.

• Frequent stops and turns – Trucks regularly pull into driveways, alleys, and private lanes.

• Early-morning operation – Low light makes cyclists harder to see; driver fatigue can worsen reaction times.

• Improper yielding – Many collisions happen when trucks turn into private drives or cross bike lanes.

Even at low speeds, the force of a sanitation truck can cause devastating injuries.

Safety Tips for Cyclists and Drivers

Preventing accidents requires awareness from everyone on the road.

For Cyclists:

• Wear reflective clothing and use front and rear bike lights.

• Avoid riding directly beside large trucks.

• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.

• Use extra caution near driveways, alleys, and parking lots.

For Truck Drivers and Waste Companies:

• Check mirrors and blind spots before turning or backing up.

• Use cameras or spotters when available.

• Keep lights and reflective markings clean and operational.

• Provide ongoing safety training specific to cyclists and pedestrian awareness.

Legal Considerations in Garbage Truck Accidents

Because sanitation trucks are commercial vehicles, determining liability typically requires a detailed investigation. Responsibility may fall on:

• The truck driver, if they failed to yield, check blind spots, or operate safely.

• The company, if poor training, improper scheduling, or inadequate maintenance contributed.

• A third party, such as a manufacturer, if a vehicle defect played a role.

Even if criminal charges are not filed, families may still pursue a civil wrongful death claim for medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional damages.

Garbage Truck Accident? Call Shaw.

Losing a loved one or being injured in a collision with a garbage truck is overwhelming — and the legal process that follows can be just as stressful. You don’t have to face it alone. A skilled personal injury attorney can conduct a full investigation, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

You or your family may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency Treatment

• Medical Bills

• Funeral and Burial Costs

• Lost Income

• Loss of Financial Support

• Pain and Suffering

• Property Damage

• Wrongful Death

• And More

We can help you find out for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our San Antonio personal injury attorneys. No fees. No pressure. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.

We look forward to serving you.

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¹KSAT News Report

²TxDOT Crash Contributing Factors 2024