Encinitas, California – A young boy was injured Wednesday evening when a pickup truck careened off South Coast Highway 101 and crashed into a gelato shop in downtown Encinitas, authorities said.
The crash occurred around 5:59 p.m. near the intersection of South Coast Highway 101 and West D Street, when a northbound Chevrolet Silverado collided with the rear of a Toyota Prius, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.
After the impact, the Silverado veered off the roadway and slammed into the Gelato 101 Building at 480 S. Coast Highway 101, striking the boy inside the shop. Deputies said the child was trapped beneath the truck until first responders were able to free him. He was conscious and breathing at the scene before being taken to Rady Children’s Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
The driver of the pickup, identified as Edward De La Torre, 64, was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The occupants of the Prius were evaluated by paramedics and did not appear to be hurt.
The crash caused visible damage to the front of the building and drew a large emergency response to the busy coastal area. Investigators from the North Coastal Sheriff’s Station’s traffic division are continuing to examine what led to the collision.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information is urged to contact the North Coastal Sheriff’s Station at 760-966-3555.
Who Covers the Damage If a Car Slams Into a Shop Because of Another Driver’s Mistake?
When a car crashes into a business or storefront because of another driver’s mistake, determining liability can be complex. In most cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering property damage and any resulting injuries. However, if multiple vehicles were involved or negligence is disputed, it’s crucial to work with experienced car accident lawyers in California who can identify all responsible parties.
Store or property owners may also need to file a separate claim through their own commercial insurance policy to cover repairs or business interruption losses. In situations where unsafe property conditions worsened the impact or injuries — such as weak structural barriers or lack of protective posts — premises liability attorneys can help determine if the property owner shares part of the responsibility.
Because these accidents often involve both traffic and property law, victims and business owners should contact a trusted car accident law firm with experience in multi-party claims. If the crash occurred in San Diego County, the team of San Diego car accident attorneys at Megeredchian Law can help investigate the cause, handle insurance negotiations, and pursue full compensation for repairs, lost income, and other damages.Call Megeredchian Law today at (866) 359-0807 for a free case review. Our attorneys will fight to make sure the right party pays for the damage — not you.