Elderly Pedestrian Seriously Injured in Collision

Elderly Pedestrian Critically Injured in San Ysidro Collision; Police Investigation Continues

Overview

An 83-year-old pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries after being struck by a vehicle in the 200 block of East San Ysidro Boulevard on Saturday evening, November 29, 2025. According to the San Diego Police Department, a 2011 Jeep Liberty driven by a 71-year-old man was traveling westbound after exiting the freeway at approximately 6:30 p.m. when it collided with the pedestrian. Officers reported that alcohol does not appear to be a factor at this stage of the investigation.

The pedestrian sustained a pelvic fracture and a brain bleed and was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Authorities have not released the victim’s identity. The investigation remains active as officers work to determine the circumstances leading up to the crash.

What We Know About the Crash

- Location: 200 block of East San Ysidro Boulevard, near the international border area of San Diego County, a corridor with heavy foot traffic, complex intersections, and frequent freeway off-ramps.
- Time: Approximately 6:30 p.m., a time when changing light conditions, increased weekend activity, and glare from headlights can affect visibility.
- Vehicles/Parties: A 2011 Jeep Liberty driven by a 71-year-old man; the pedestrian is an 83-year-old man.
- Injury Profile: Pelvic fracture and intracranial bleeding, injuries that are especially dangerous for older adults and often require intensive care, surgical intervention, and extended rehabilitation.
- Initial Findings: SDPD reports that alcohol is not suspected. Factors like speed relative to conditions, right-of-way, lighting, and the pedestrian’s path of travel are commonly examined in similar cases.

Why Older Pedestrians Face Higher Risks

Collisions involving older pedestrians often result in severe outcomes due to age-related fragility, bone density changes, and heightened susceptibility to traumatic brain injuries. Even moderate-speed impacts can cause complex fractures and internal injuries. Recovery typically involves surgery, inpatient rehabilitation, and long-term support for mobility and cognitive needs. Families may also face significant financial burdens from emergency care, ongoing medical treatment, and the need for assistive services at home or in skilled facilities.

Common Issues Under Review in Pedestrian Collisions

While every investigation is fact-specific, officers and investigators typically evaluate:
- Visibility and Lighting: Street lighting, headlight use, weather, and the presence of glare or shadows.
- Right-of-Way: Whether the pedestrian was in a crosswalk (marked or unmarked) and whether traffic signals or signs were obeyed.
- Speed and Stopping Distance: Whether the driver adjusted speed for conditions near ramps, intersections, or crosswalks.
- Driver Attention: Potential distractions, line-of-sight obstructions, and the impact of vehicle design on visibility.
- Roadway Design and Maintenance: Signal timing, crosswalk placement, signage, and lighting. If a dangerous condition exists, a public entity liability inquiry may follow.
- Vehicle Data: Event data recorders (EDRs) may reveal speed, braking, and throttle input just before impact.

Collisions like this serve as a stark reminder of how vulnerable pedestrians—especially older adults—are in high-traffic border communities such as San Ysidro. As investigators continue to piece together what happened, the victim’s family now faces an uncertain medical and financial road ahead. Understanding the legal implications of pedestrian crashes is crucial, particularly when life-altering injuries occur.

At Avian Law Group, we have extensive experience representing injured pedestrians and their families in complex cases involving severe trauma, disputed liability, and hazardous roadway conditions. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian collision, our team is here to ensure your rights are protected, critical evidence is preserved, and you receive the support and compensation needed to move forward.

For a free, confidential consultation, contact us anytime. No one should navigate a tragedy like this alone—we’re here to help you every step of the way.