Please Slow Down wrote on Apr 4, 2008 3:50 PM:I am sad to hear of a fatality along this stretch of 101. Too many people use it as their personal raceway. Pulling out of parking spots and leaving restaurants here is always dangerous. I hope the city of Encinitas installs a light at the Seaside entrance this summer or there will be more fatalities.

Nick wrote on Apr 4, 2008 4:19 PM:Give me a break! It's bad enough you have to pay to park at Seaside and now some knucklehead wants a light there too. Personally, I prefer our great little coastal town of 20 years ago. Anyone remember the good old days?

~~~ wrote on Apr 4, 2008 4:28 PM:San Elijo is a 25 mph zone!

anon wrote on Apr 4, 2008 4:54 PM:Nick -
Your message suggests you think you are an "old timer" around here. 20 years? What a joke. Try 50. And if every one of us who have been here that long acted on your intimated desire, you wouldn't be here !!!

huh? wrote on Apr 4, 2008 4:55 PM:er, Seaside is not on the 101. What am I missing here? The article clearly says the accident was on the 101.

Chris wrote on Apr 4, 2008 5:15 PM:It wasn't at Seaside. It happened up north closer to Downtown Encinitas. Gentlemen traveling 80+ MPH northbound crossed the center line and killed a female driving south. It's past Cardiff that people drive faster northbound than near Seaside. But yes a light would help those pulling out of Seaside going north.

Don wrote on Apr 4, 2008 5:15 PM:No light at Seaside please.... I can't ever remember anyone getting in any serious accidents there for at least a dozen years. Just because one happens doesn't mean you need a freaking light.

gb wrote on Apr 4, 2008 5:22 PM:I remember Cardiff 25 years ago...thats why I just moved 3000 miles away...not little Cardiff any more

Yes Nick wrote on Apr 4, 2008 5:30 PM:I Remember! I haven't been to Seaside since they implemented the parking fees. I really feel like our beaches/towns suck now. My favorite time was back in the late 70's/ early 80's....aging myself here, but it was a wonderful time to live on the coast. Now its just too crowded.

Robert wrote on Apr 4, 2008 5:56 PM:I agree, no light at Seaside. But how about a few topas? Those BIG speedbumps they use in Baja to make people slow down before getting into town? Those would at least be better than a traffic light.

Oh Please wrote on Apr 4, 2008 5:56 PM:Seaside not on the 101? Where do you live, Kansas? Oldtimers, eh? Remember when the Cardiff Reef parking lot was sand? You could actually drive on the beach! This accident happened just north of pipes, and that's a 50mph zone.

Vinay wrote on Apr 4, 2008 6:00 PM:People are driving very recklessly today. I drove South from Carlsbad (Costco) to get to my home in Solana Beach. I decided to take 101 because the 5 was jammed. ... People were driving through red lights. I saw a women in her 50's skip through a parking lot to avoid a traffic light. She nearly hit a bunch of kids on bikes. I was not surprised when I saw this horrible accident.

Where are the police? I see them at Starbucks all the time. I see them parked at the south end Sierra in Solana Beach everyday drinking their Starbucks in pairs while thier cruisers are idling.

Many of these same [people] are speeding through our residential subdivision at 50+ mph and rarely do they respect any of the pedestrian crosswalks. UPS trucks are always parked in red zones and you cannot see around the trucks when you leave the condos. I waiting for some tragedy around here.

The police do not seem to enforce any of the rules of the road around here. However, they always cry that they need more funds.

Emily wrote on Apr 4, 2008 6:06 PM:Did everyone forget that someone died on 101 today?
How about...To those that lost a loved one today I am sorry for your loss. It is always a tragic day when a loved one is lost. Your family is in my prayers.

Bandon wrote on Apr 4, 2008 6:26 PM:Such a tragic event. I agree with Emily. The other two gentleman need to get off their soapbox. I have lived in Encinitas for two years and have come to realize that there are some of the WORST drivers here.
RIP

Andrea wrote on Apr 4, 2008 6:36 PM:My heart was saddened while driving by the scene this afternnon. It infuriates me that people feel the need to drive so fast. We all need to just slow down. My heart goes out to this incident woman's family.

Hmmm... wrote on Apr 4, 2008 6:50 PM:I'm just surprised this doesn't happen more often.

Maybe now we'll get some more enforcement of traffic stop signs and speed here on 101 in Encinitas.

ESPECIALLY WITH ALL THE "LANCE ARMSTRONG" WANNA BE'S JUST BLOWING RIGHT THROUGH EVERY STOP SIGN SO THEY CAN KEEP THEIR CARDIO PUMP!

The deputies just let it go. When is it going to stop after one of them causes so innocent person driving to kill another human being?!?!?

Randy wrote on Apr 4, 2008 7:45 PM:I just would like to say that the people commenting on this site shoudl be apologizing to the family and saying rest in peace instead of freakin complaining theres lance armstong wanna bees, COME ON PEOPLE~!~

shawn wrote on Apr 4, 2008 7:58 PM:i sent in a comment a while ago today and it's not posted? I'm curious why that is. It had no profanity, etc and i followed your guidelines. Am i being sensored? What's up with that. You've posted many ignorant comments. Maybe i should change my paper subscription to the "other paper". I'm dissapointed.

oh please wrote on Apr 4, 2008 8:16 PM:Speeding may not have been an issue. 2 people driving the speed limit (50) hitting head on is like hitting a wall at 100. The issue might have been simple inattentiveness. Regardless, keeo both hands on the wheel and eyes forward (that's what my wife tells me).
So sad..

heather wrote on Apr 4, 2008 8:43 PM:I was there just after accident happened. Was walking on the 101 and they hadn't closed off area to pedestrians yet. Accident was awful! My heart and prayers go out to all the families involved. No ones life will be the same. Chris how do you know the info. you posted?

yes wrote on Apr 4, 2008 8:46 PM:Going North on 101 North of Pipes always seems dangerous. I see people going 70 regularly surfing at Pipes everyday. I actually used to see (a few years ago) way more cops in that area than I do now.

Ms Encinitas wrote on Apr 4, 2008 9:21 PM:Sheriffs? What Sheriffs? Everyone knows there are no sheriffs in Encinitas. You can go as fast as you want. When was the last time you saw a sheriff in Encinitas? I say nix any talk of lights. Its time for roundabouts on HW101 just like they did in that cool surf town south of us known as Birdrock. I guarantee you; people will not be going 80 mph through a roundabout. Sober or Drunk. Maybe Max 30mph. Violators get what they deserve, a smashed car and/or personal injury. Roundabouts control the road speed and filter out the truly wasted who shouldn’t be driving anyway. Roundabouts are popular throughout the world including the USA and for good reason. Roundabouts are pure good for the community. Put roundabouts on Hwy101.

101 Downtowner wrote on Apr 4, 2008 9:32 PM:
+1 on the bike guys. 101 is congested and dangerous as it is sans bike traffic. 3rd Street is a much safer route and only one stop sign between Encinitas Blvd and Swamis.....

Boff wrote on Apr 4, 2008 9:34 PM:It was south of Swami's right before the campgrounds. Very bad, I knew someone had to have been hurt, very sorry to hear a family lost a loved one. 101 is a cruising road, not a freeway!

Chris wrote on Apr 4, 2008 9:37 PM:Seriously....Hmmm....count how many of you motorist that roll thru stop signs.... Motorists kill bicylclists don't.... i don't agree with the ones that roll thru stop signs but they are no different than you....and they aren't doing 50 mph on the road....

heather wrote on Apr 4, 2008 10:12 PM:Ms Encinitas you stated that "Violators get what they deserve, a smashed car and/or personal injury." Unfortunately its the innocent party that often suffers. As, apparently, happened today.
Either way both parties are negatively effected.

geez wrote on Apr 4, 2008 10:51 PM:Where is your compassion people? An innocent person lost their life. The family is in my prayers.

Jacob wrote on Apr 5, 2008 12:00 AM:We the people of Encinitas want a roundabout at Seaside!

Chris wrote on Apr 5, 2008 1:10 AM:Heather....I was riding north on San Elijo and met a pair of ladies on bicycles that had seen and spoke to authorities at the scene. They stated that both cars were unrecognizable. The guy that caused the crash was Life flighted out. Maybe more will be reported tomorrow as more information is released. But I can tell you Hmmm.. it was'nt caused by "Lance Armstrong" :)

beat up from feet up wrote on Apr 5, 2008 1:24 AM:Change the name to MEcinitas. That's why we don't live there. Someone died and to some it's only if it bothers ME! May the family know there are caring people out there. May the Spirit of this families choice bless each and every one. So sorry for your loss, honest.

chris wrote on Apr 5, 2008 7:23 AM:Roundabouts are the worst. Whoever thought of that should be made to try and cross the street at the roundabout on Santa Fe Dr. That's the most dangerous intersection in Encinitas

Nick wrote on Apr 5, 2008 8:21 AM:To Anon: I only suggested 20 years ago, even though I'm 41. My family has been right here in Coastal North County for 4 Generations, so I think I happen to know a little something about our wonderful North County. I'm sorry someone lost their life, but with all the people who have crowded our community and all those that don't actually live here and use Hwy 101 as their personal freeway instead of sitting in gridlock on I-5, accidents are going to happen and people are going to get killed, sad but true. I know, how about we just close Hwy 101 to thru traffic, that should do it.

Grieving in Florida wrote on Apr 5, 2008 8:34 AM:My friend was killed in this accident yesterday. Please pray for her family.

jon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 8:59 AM:People, Someone died here. For the love of God, please show some respect. My condolences to the family.

D wrote on Apr 5, 2008 9:37 AM:I jogged past the scene after everyone was gone and the cops were doing their investigation. The cars were really torn up. A ford Taurus and a Benz convertable (I think). It looked like the taurus crossed the yellow and the benz tried to avoid it based on where it was hit. Speed may not have be a factor just someone on a cell phone or not paying attention. At 50 and the cars 4 feet apart it doesn't take much time for this to happen. It was right after the road goes from two to one lane (north bound). That stretch always makes me nervous.

william wrote on Apr 5, 2008 10:52 AM:My prayers go out to the woman and her family. We saw the aftermath yesterday and it saddened all of us. This is a wake up taht every moment we have here is a gift, you can be driving on 101 enjoying the beauty and peace, then you are no longer here. Also- do you know there have been two fatalities with drivers unaware the round abouts were installed-they drove right into the center area and were ejected and hit the tree (the city planted in the middle of an intersection). The killed were locals returning to the area who did not know roundabouts were installed!

resident wrote on Apr 5, 2008 10:53 AM:Just got back from running along 101. OMG! Between the runners running 4 across and the packs of bicycle riders, it's no wonder there aren't more accidents there. Didn't see a single sheriff but lots of crazy drivers slowing to watch the surf or stopping because they want to wait for a parking space.

Rich wrote on Apr 5, 2008 11:23 AM:I was out surfing at pipes when i heard the accident we ran up and a few witnesses told us what happened, the lady who died was in a small mercedes and the guy was already driving strangely before he veered to the left heading towards the cliff. The lady remained in the car dead while the young guy had to be airlifted out of the seen.

Jason wrote on Apr 5, 2008 12:13 PM:Sorry Chris you’re wrong. Sante Fe roundabout is a pleasure and easy to drive unless your wasted. Plus it’s terrific to walk across the street at the roundabouts. The most deadly intersection is Encinitas and El Camino Real, followed by Leucadia Blvd. and El Camino. Please put more roundabouts in they work and the overwhelming majority love them. If you don't like them, stay on I5.

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 12:27 PM:Also let me say a light would have done nothing the avoid this incident. It occurred far north of the campgounds before Swami's. If you drive by it will be obvious where Godek hit the guardrail hard.

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 12:36 PM:But I can also say people just drive too fast on these neighborhood communities. Including on 101, Birmingham, San Elijo and some even have the nerve to cut through the residential areas driving unsafely at a high rate of speed all the time.

At the last accident on Birmingham I responded to I asked the sheriff traffic investigator to please enforce the speed limit on Birmingham. He said they cannot because there is no place for a radar officer to work from on this road.

I am the first first responder to several accidents a year in my neighborhood to incidents on Birmingham. We have one death on Birminham within the year due to traffic going at an unsafe speed that was not reported on at all. Additionally a San Dieguito high schooler was killed walking back to school at lunch time by a car that pinnned him into the support structure for Hwy 5 overpass on Santa Fe.

I hope and plead for people to drive slowly and safely in my neighborhood of Cardiff.

I have been rear ended once in the last year on 101 and almost hit several times as a pedestrian going from my home to the beach and back by drivers going to fast and not watching what they do.

It would sure help if the City would put in some crosswalks and enforce if not reduce the speed limits.

Residents are always concerned with lights and stop signs that may divert more traffic to neighborhood streets that have no sidewalks and that everyone uses.

The south side of Cardiff is called the walking district. And is hardly safe for walkers. More like dodge car with your life with all the speeders and cut through traffic trying to avoid the Hwy 5 parking lot.

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 12:44 PM:Actually closing traffic in just three places 1) 101 just north or south of restaurant row near cardiff reef, 2) and 101 south of swami's, and San Elijo at Mongtgomery and, Rubenstein at Montgomery and we could stop all the cut through traffic in Cardiff west of hwy 5.

Let pedestrians, bikes and golf cars get through these blocked points and give them their own pathways.

This would stop all of these needless deaths due to speeders trying to avoid the hwy 5 parking lot.

Mary R. wrote on Apr 5, 2008 1:35 PM:
My heart does go out for this
family. They are truly suffering.
I pray a blessing on them .
But to ignore the reasons & not
make changes does not honor them
or protect any other potential
victims . It would be nice if
speeders would be less selfish
& be more considerate of others .
Other than that, we need more
police
to
patrol the highway and arrest
them. Unfortunately, there
are many people who will only
do the right thing when there are
consequences for not doing so .

newbee wrote on Apr 5, 2008 2:12 PM:I live in Cardiff and I have not heard of "Seaside" as a place or entrance (where there is paid parking?). Can someone tell be where this is exactly? Thank You. My condolences to the families of those touched by this event.

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 2:34 PM:Regarding statistics on accidents on our roads...

Almost always no traffic report is taken when their is an accident. Last time I was rear ended on Leucadia Blvd the cop would not take a report unless I wanted an ambulance to take me to the hospital. Ended up the person that rear ended at a stop light lied and said I swerved into his lane and he could not stop. My insurance said he was at fault,AAA, and his insurance said he was not at fault, State Farm.

Regardless, this accident like many in North County never get recorded because the police/sheriff do not want to take the time to do a traffic report of the incident unless their is an injury.

So we do not have the statistics to accurately determine what roads/instersections have the most accidents on!!!

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 3:19 PM:Wow, NCTimes posted one of perhaps 5 my comments on this accident...

Seems as if NCTimes cares little about public safety!

And I followed the guidelines, accuracy, no foul language...

Way to go NCTimes for not serving the public!

Becky wrote on Apr 5, 2008 3:30 PM:People need a reason to change behaviors. If we want to change the conditions on our roads, we need to change the physical characteristics of the road. Put in Roundabouts on HW101 which will control speed down to 30 mph where it should be along our coast. How many deaths a year along HW101 does it take to warrant change?

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 4:23 PM:Ok. So most of my comments are posted.

Except for my on the scene description what happened. As I was there.

Maybe the NCTimes will post that:

1) There was little if anything that Greenberg could have done to avoid this head on collision.

2) Godek traveling northbound on 101 hit the guadrail first at a very high rate of speed and then hit Greenberg who was southbound on 101

3) Godek went over the median line into oncoming traffic.

4) Godek's car was significantly more damaged than Greenberg's. Almost torn in half.

I hope this helps the family and friends involved find some closure. And help those of us that want to understand to help avoid such incidents in the future.

Josh wrote on Apr 5, 2008 5:17 PM:I was at the scene of the accident just after it happened. And from what I gathered from many of the eye witness is that whomever was driving the black vehicle tried to make an illeagle u-turn and the gold car collided with them. Regardless, someone lost a daughter, a sister, a bestfriend, and much more than any of us could possible fathom. Bow your heads in silence and show a little respect. As a father, I could not imagine losing my daughter. My heart and prayers go out to both families who lost on this day. Don't forget to remind your loved ones how much you mean to them every time you leave there presence, because you never know if that's the last time you're going to see them. God Bless.

Hello wrote on Apr 5, 2008 6:39 PM:First I would like to give my prayers and thoughts to the family and friends, as I did for the drivers while passing on the road above the scene.
I drove pass this scene after 6:30ish and the stretch was still blocked.

I am sad to read such remarks that are wasting time to argue about crosswalks, lights, round a bouts, not enough cops....Yes we all feel something should be done, go to the city council write letters-please don't just complain, action speaks louder than words.
Also take a minute to remind family and friends to drive attentively...it takes one second of fiddling with radio, cell phone and such and tomorrow may not come, but you might have to also live with killing someone. Both are horrible its the truth, and for goodness sake, can I tell you all that while waiting in the line to get back onto the 101, a car right in front of me with a teenage girl driving not paying attention-uhh TEXTING, totally being irresponsible to operating a vehicle...anyway please take action in your city to make it a safe place not just gripping, communication, truth and love will make it better. Please say more prayers for the ones who are at lost of a family member and friend. Hugs

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 8:08 PM:One purpose of blogs like this is that a sense of consensus can be formed and evidence provided to help support going to our traffic commission, traffic engineers, city council. If not just make people more aware of the issues and possible proposed solutions.

I have talked to each of these entities regarding the safety on our public roads several times. Including going door to door in the neighborhood and sitting out in public asking people to sign petitions with recommendations and going to community meetings.

I also am on the Encinitas volunteer emergency response team that works with our fire department (CERT) and regularly work in hospitals ER and CCU units in the region currently.

Bottom line nothing ever gets done by the City of Encinitas regarding these public safety issues.

I need more input and comments on what people think are good and bad ideas. And I will take this and pound on the doors of our public servants to try and get something done! All of your support and ideas are appreciated.

To Zephon: wrote on Apr 5, 2008 8:16 PM:I don't believe you or maybe I don't believe your witnesses. First off, your description is not consistent with Josh. 2nd, I assume you were there to see the cars at rest? I saw the cars well after the accident from up on San Elijo. The cars were maybe 20 yards north of where the guardrail starts at Pipes - there is no way the Taurus hit any guardrail before it hit the Benz. Your comments on the UT site about suicide are ridiculously irresponsible. While I believe that "heartfelt condolences to the families" are absurd on a message board, making implications about state of mind just before an accident is at best very "ghost whisper"-ish, and at worst shameless self aggrandizment. That said, I do agree with you on traffic circles. They work in the rest of the world, so they'll work here. William - you're nuts! I would much rather have a one car fatality from a drunk in a traffic circle, than a multiple fatility because the same idiot drove through a 4 way stop. Frankly, I have no sympathy for drunk drivers - myself included. Newbee - seaside is on the north end of solana beach - you need to get out more.

Melanie in Cardiff wrote on Apr 5, 2008 9:04 PM:I drove by the scene yesterday at 4:00 and pulled over. I had my baby in the car I just needed a moment to compose myself. It looked like there was a yellow tarp in the Taurus too so I thought there had been two deaths. .I couldnt help but think of the people involved and how their families must be feeling. All night I tossed and turned thinking of the children and the husband that lost their mother and wife. I have heard a number of theories about what happened but the fact is, life can be taken away so quickly. I drive much differently now not only because of my precious cargo but because I realize there are peoples parents, children and friends all around me. Please Pay Attention! Its noth worth it to mess with other peoples lives. i walk that stretch of 101 almost daily. Im just so sad for the family.

How is the guy doing that hit her. Why did he swerve? Most of all I am praying for her family.

Please be careful out there!

Cardiff mom wrote on Apr 5, 2008 9:09 PM:I have not been able to get the image out of my head. My heart goes out to the families and especially the children that lost their mother. Im a new mom so Im so upset by what I saw yesterday. Life can be cut short in a second! Be careful people!

My prayers are with them...

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 9:29 PM:And if you read the comment on UT site I said that a third party said the Godek appeared to be trying to commit suicide. That is what I was told by somone that saw him hit the guard rail first at high speed.

I did not see them hit and only said what I heart from a witness.

I also said NOBODY can know other than that person for sure if that was the case. It could have easily been a medical emergency like I said in the UT blog. Stroke, heart attack, syncope you name it.

So please do not distort my words!

Zephon wrote on Apr 5, 2008 9:31 PM:I also posted comments regarding Josh's statement put NCTimes did not post them for some reason.

Josh wrote on Apr 5, 2008 9:54 PM:Does anyone know how old the girl was? I also saw a yellow tarp in the passanger side of the gold Torus, which would indicate the passenger of the man was dead. Does anyone know who that person was? Thank God (or whomever you believe your creater is) for your existance and let people around you, whom which you care about, know how much you mean to them and appreaciate them. Because, you never know when your time has come and you will not have the opportunity to say goodbye.

josh wrote on Apr 5, 2008 10:02 PM:hey Zephon,
reword your coments, I would like to read them

a friend wrote on Apr 5, 2008 10:26 PM:I can tell you that Godeck was not trying to commit suicide. He is my niece's boyfriend. I don't know if we will ever know what happened at that moment he crossed the median. I can't even imagine what he will do when he finds out about the tragidy. He has had numereous surgeries thus far today. He should pull through as far as i know. My heartfelt condolences to the Greenburg family.

SwamisLocal wrote on Apr 5, 2008 11:19 PM:My heart goes out to the families of those involved.

I just wanted to chime in on a few of the comments made. I live 100 yards from all of this (to satisfy any "haters and über locals", I am 4th generation local ).

I am amazed that we don't have more accidents. With the amount of traffic, packs of cyclists, and foot traffic along that stretch of 101. Everyone in a car or on a motorcycle is like bat out of hell after hitting all the stops signs, traffic lights, and congestion through downtown Encinitas. I cross the tracks and Hwy 101 on a daily basis, and I see cars and motorcycles going WAY TO FAST. People are trying to pull out of the Swamis parking lot and I am trying to navigate the traffic like a game of FROGGER on my way to the beach. A traffic light here would make that intersection safer for all of us and slow down traffic. I know the accident happened about 150 yards down from location I am speaking of, but if any of you remember... there have a been more than a few REALLY BAD accidents in that location as well.

Regarding the traffic circle comments: PLEASE remember that Santa Fe is a 35MPH zone NOT 50+. If you're doing the speed limit, traffic circles are not annoying. Stand at the corner of Santa Fe and Summit and you'll see what I mean. I have seen 3 fatalities here, multiple near misses, one a 5 year old girl on a bike ride with her dad. Some guy in a lifted truck was going WAY TO FAST almost ran her over.

Life is precious, Please slow down.

Absolute rubbish wrote on Apr 6, 2008 4:53 AM:If anyone thinks ANY of our elected officals give a fiddler's fart (to quote McCort) about ANY of us or OUR needs, wants, concerns, and complaints.

Even if something personally affects them, if their response rocks the boat too much they internalize their response. The result? More of the same selfish status quo.

Voting is now merely a symbolic gesture providing the masses the illusion of choice.

God help us all, and may God watch over the families of those involved in this horrible accident.

Kate wrote on Apr 6, 2008 8:54 AM:The dead woman was 45 with a family. It occured probably two minutes after I drove by the same area, going south, so in a word --- it could have been anybody Godek plowed into (meaning me). Just means we've all been given one more day to do our work, whatever that means for you. Hard to tell whether any amount of vigilence on the woman's part would have avoided the accident entirely, although I'm gonna pay better attention to the OTHER guy from now on. But realistically, you're in your lane, minding your own business, and why would you be concerned with someone in the opposite lane as a general rule -- that is til you see this guy headed straight at you.

Roundabouts are good. All over England and Ireland by the way. Work better than traffic signals when you get them right. It's just that we resist change, even good ones, and like to go about in a dream state, then blame someone else for our lack of awareness. The old, "the tree leaped out in front of me and I couldn't avoid hitting it" syndrome.

When we get behind the wheel, drunk, sober, texting, or attentive, we're armed and dangerous and we all forget that. If more people considered that when they got behind the wheel tired, angry, depressed, late for an appointment, agitated -- "Hey, I might kill someone today if I don't pay attention." we'd have a lot fewer accidents. But that isn't what we do. "I"m late, I'm angry, I just had a fight, I just lost that deal, who is this yutz in front of me? Oh, the phone is ringing, maybe I'll text so and so...."

Who knows what was going through Godek's mind at the time? We may never know.

samantha s. wrote on Apr 6, 2008 3:51 PM:I knew Debbie from Miami, Florida. She was a beautiful amazing lady that lived life to the fullest. please keep her family in your prayers!!

John E wrote on Apr 6, 2008 5:40 PM:First, I DO care that someone was killed ..., and I believe the other respondents in this thread do as well.

When any tragedy strikes, we can ask ourselves what might be done to reduce the chances of a similar event in the future. Reducing the posted speed limit by 10 mph, from 50 to 40, would enhance safety while costing drivers very little time. High speed limits work on divided highways with very few intersections, but are they really appropriate on a heavily used undivided beachfront road?

Aspen wrote on Apr 6, 2008 5:41 PM:Debbie was the most wonderful person. She gave 100% to everyone else. She will be greatly missed by all her friends in Colorado. ... Debbie's son and daughter no longer have a mother, her husband no longer has a wife and her mother no longer has a daughter. Pay attention people!

enci101 wrote on Apr 6, 2008 6:09 PM:to huh?:

"er, Seaside is not on the 101. What am I missing here? The article clearly says the accident was on the 101."

yeah huh? is right you are clearly confused. seaside is a beach/surf break which means it IS on the 101. never heard of it? so sad to hear about this accident but come one accidents happen everywhere and there are reckless drivers on every road lets not single out seaside.

Aspen 2 wrote on Apr 6, 2008 7:19 PM:The tragedy of this accident is overwhelming and quibbling over details doesn't help. Debbie Greenberg was and will always be the most selfless person I have ever met. She was thrilled to be coming back to Colorado for the week to see friends and be with her daughter. She will be horribly missed by all of us who have ever hiked, biked, skied or snowboarded with her. Please try and remember that a loved one lost their life on that tragic day.

Cardiff Mom wrote on Apr 6, 2008 8:32 PM:To Aspen 2: Please let her friends and family know how sorry some of us are at their loss. Im not thinking of speeding issues or the roads right now. All I can think of is the pain of a loss like this and as I type I hear sirens AGAIN stopping on the 101. I live about a 1/4 mile from where the accedent occoured and I see the spot as a remonder of how careful we all have to be everytime I pass it. Im holding my husband and son much closer these days.

My deepest sympathy to her family. Im not trying to be nosey I just want to know why this happened...

aspen 2 wrote on Apr 7, 2008 6:26 AM:To Cardiff Mom: Debbie was tying up some loose ends before her trip to Colorado. I believe she was coming back from lunch with a friend. She is simply a victim of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Many of us were looking forward to seeing her the following week.

TLG wrote on Apr 7, 2008 8:29 AM:Sorry, Jason, you're wrong about the round abouts. It is very difficult to see pedestrians, especially when they don't bother to cross where they're suppose to cross. Almost everyone cuts the corner to cross.

The round abouts are poorly designed. The intersections where they are used are too small. Add to that no one seems to understand how to use them. There are far more accidents at those intersections now than when they were all-way stops.

You think the majority loves them? How about a vote? They'd be removed immediately.

As for Encinitas & El Camino Real, it's even worse now that they have installed those dopey red-light cameras. I have seen a lot more accidents there. Also, the lights aren't staggered properly, causing impatient drivers to run the lights all to increase the city's revenue.

Samantha wrote on Apr 7, 2008 9:08 AM:Hi. Debbie Greenberg was my Aunt. I have read all of the comments and I thank those who send their prayers. She was the most amazing person in the world, so full of life. Services will be held in Miami where Debbie was from and where all of her family reside. Thank you again for your prayers for those of you in Aspen who knew her.

pamela wrote on Apr 7, 2008 10:54 AM:I live across from and had a complete 2nd floor view of almost the entire crash scene and the area on 101 where the crash occurred and I send my condolences to all the hundreds of people whose lives are changed forever due to this horrific and tragic accident. I can't begin to imagine how painful it is to loose a loved one due to something this tragic. The area that everyone is arguing about is a very tricky area for traffic due to the fact that drivers DO like to make (illegal) U turns at this particular juncture because they don't want to continue to drive into downtown Encinitas (North) to turn around legally. (There is no round about at this area of the road, so I am not sure how that came up in this conversation). At this particular location on Coast Hwy-there is one traffic lane going North and one going South. The single lane of Coast Hwy 101 quickly becomes two lanes on either side of the street (so 4 lanes all together) very near where this crash occurred, so people often speed up to begin passing into the widened, 2nd lane(s) going South or slow down to the now narrowing double to single lane going North. ... The young man is very, very lucky to be alive and I pray for him that he does not suffer permanent body harm and is crippled or paralyzed for his entire life. I saw him air lifted out after it took at least 40 minutes for almost the entire fire crew to rip apart his car in order to pull his body out. ... The emotional scars he will endure will be even worse then anything his body could suffer so I have great empathy for him and his family as well as the family/friends/colleagues who lost their beloved Debbie. This is little condolence ... but know she didn't suffer. A tragedy like this should never be allowed to occur but they do. My heartfelt prayers go out to all of those who suffer or will suffer for many years as a result of this accident. Many blessings to you all.

TO NICK wrote on Apr 7, 2008 11:58 AM:wow wow wow!!!! Yes I use 101 as my PERSONAL freeway to get out of the congestion of the I-5 all the time. IT IS A PUBLIC FREEWAY/HIGHWAY what the heck to you mean. You make it sound like its YOUR'S. You just made yourself sound like you think you are more important and that people shouldnt be allowed to utilize a nicer view of the beach while driving home from a bad day at work. ...

Brent. wrote on Apr 7, 2008 12:16 PM:TLG - your facts are all backwards. Go Check the real facts. Your way off.

Doug wrote on Apr 7, 2008 12:46 PM:I have renewed my efforts to avoid distractions when driving. I saw the accident scene from the train right after it happened -- she had no room to maneuver to avoid the other car coming into her lane. My heart goes out to Debbie's family; I hope they can confront their grief courageously to find peace soon and bring comfort to each other. Live every day as if it is your last -- and with love. My thoughts are with you.

Cardiff Mom wrote on Apr 7, 2008 1:04 PM:Today I cut lavender from my yard and placed a boquet at the crash site. May her family find peace somehow.

John wrote on Apr 7, 2008 1:25 PM:I Skate from swamis down to cardiff, and jog back up, everyday as exercise and an excuse to get outside. This one particular day i was stuck in traffic because of a three car wreck in carlsbad (El camino and Aviara pky) so i decided to run in the hills of la costa instead. when i heard of this accident my heart almost stopped. i run that stretch of road alot, and i have had a few close calls with cars that are going way to fast. people seem to get a kick of trying to get me to fall off my skateboard, and it is super dangerous. my condolences go out to debbie's family and friends, as well of those who know the driver of the other car, i hope he has a speedy recovery. only god knows the exact reasons for this accident, and last i checked he doesnt always offer that explanation. everyone be safe and always look over your shoulder, and look out for those around you. i will continue to use that stretch of road, but forever will pray when i cross the path that Debbie was never able to continue on

The odds wrote on Apr 7, 2008 2:49 PM:Everyone is getting so fired up about this situation. It's very sad someone was the victim of this incident...it's a big reminder that nothing is permanent. I'm not old, I haven't been living in Cardiff for 70 years, but I do know in the two years I have lived here, there has been one death on 101 and 2 deaths via train. For the hundreds of thousands of people living in North County, I'd say the odds aren't bad. Call it what you want, karma, fate, chance, wrong place at the wrong time...let's just celebrate the fact that this woman was loved and I can tell by some personal comments left that she indeed was.

Minus traffic arguments, people wanting more lights or people to slow down - this is all really a reminder that things end.

jef wrote on Apr 7, 2008 2:51 PM:Debbie Greenberg was one of the most awesome people I have ever known. I met her through work and we kept in touch outside of work. She was the most positive and empowering friend I have ever made. She shined so bright as a selfless mother, wife and friend.

JS wrote on Apr 7, 2008 4:09 PM:I have never been part of a blog or any other interactive computer dialog before now. I did not know Debbie, but do know one of her good friends in North County who will be attending her funeral in Florida. I am touched by the tragedy, void and grief that is present in the lives of family and friends who knew her. My deepest sympathies to you all - she sounds like an extraordinary person who will be greatly misssed.

wendy wrote on Apr 7, 2008 5:13 PM:I am Debbie's sister in law but in many ways we were more like sisters. I want to thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. My family has asked me to stop going to this website because reading about the accident is so disturbing but in some ways it helps me to realize that Debbie is really gone, something we all are having difficulty accepting.
I want you to know that when it came to others in need there was no one more capable and reliable than Deb.
We are devastated and our hearts are broken.

Donna wrote on Apr 8, 2008 7:01 AM:Hey everyone you have this kid convicted already and he is still in the ER fighting for his life. I happened to be related to this person. Brain injury, leg shattered, jaw cannot be reconnected, and all kinds of tubes into the heart from the main artery to drain the blood because still he is bleeding internally. His mother and other brother are having a hard time getting to California because of lack of funds.Can you imagine your son in the ER not knowing if he will ever wake up and have no funds to be by his side. To be as you all call him "Godek" I ask God to take him home. "Godek" is suffering also. I feel and pray for the other driver who was killed instantly. I feel for her husband and family. Think of the devastation the void they are feeling. Let's be Americans and still care for "all" people. All have lost here and we should all be praying for both families.

Donna wrote on Apr 8, 2008 7:04 AM:Dear Debbie's sister in law: I will pray for all of the family and I will always keep Debbie in my prayers. God Bless all of you.

Cardiff Mom wrote on Apr 8, 2008 10:39 AM:Debbie, Im so glad to hear from someone from Travis's family. I was thinking of him last night and wondering how he is doing. This must be just as devistating for his family and my prayers go out to all of them as well. Its a tragedy all around and I have not forgotten about him and how it has effected his life. Its not like he just walked away. I hope he recovers and that his mother can be with him soon. Im so sorry this happened but its time to focus on the living. I have a son and my heart would be breaking too... Lets not forget about what he and his family is going through. At least Debbies family has closure. It was a blessing she went quickly.

Pray for him.

101 Daily Commuter wrote on Apr 9, 2008 10:26 AM:The 101 is the most beautiful and relaxing way to drive everyday to and from work. It is a shame others can't respect that or the life of others. It is unbelievable to me that people post comments just to rant and argue with other people's comments - I think we have missed the point. There is a husband that has lost his wife and children have lost their mother.

Wait a Minute!! wrote on Apr 9, 2008 9:41 PM:Dear 101, thanks for taking the high road, but you have missed half the point yourself - a set of parents also lost their son!

Josh wrote on Apr 9, 2008 10:35 PM:Amen to that, Daily Commuter. You hit the nail on the head!

Todd wrote on Apr 10, 2008 9:12 AM:My prayers go out to both families.
A light would be ridiculas, i haved lived here for 35 years and drive it every day. There is alway one idiot that ruins it up for everyone else. He needs to do some serious jail time if he was at fault.

To Todd wrote on Apr 10, 2008 3:51 PM:Geeze Todd, dont you think the hell he and his family is going through is enough? My God the kid is barely alive and you think he should go to jail? Give me a break! I dont believe for a second that his life will EVER be the same. How many times have you been distracted for a split second while driving? You would be in denial if you havent ever been. We dont know why he veered but he certainly didnt get off easy, now did he. No doubt his family is suffering too. They have to live with it for the rest of their lives just as much as the womans family.

Anyone know how he is doing now?

rose wrote on Apr 10, 2008 10:10 PM:People really need to slow down...obviously while driving, and also in life. Californians are known for their "intensity." I dont understand why everyone cant just relax a bit, quit being in such a hurry, enjoy simple pleasures in life...and maybe, things like this wouldnt happen, because everyone would be enjoying life, being mellow, and not racing through (the traffic) or life in general.

Elaine wrote on Apr 11, 2008 7:29 PM:My thoughts go out to both family's.Debbie sounded like a good person and the mother who is having a hard time getting to california to be by her son's side. This is the first time I've ever been on a blog but felt compelled to write. My nephew(passenger) was killed in a car accident a few years ago with his friend(driver) speeding and driving drunk. No one is a winner at this, regardless who is at fault.This brings back awful memories. God bless both families.

Rick wrote on Apr 12, 2008 7:05 PM:My wife and I attended the funeral in Florida. We are dear friends of the immediate family and this is a tragedy beyond words. This is not supposed to happen to someone we know and love. The outporing of love and prayers has, at least for now, helped to provide immense support for Peter, Brandon, and Amanda. We must all continue to reach out and pray for our dear friends. The love and support that they are receiving has given me the confidence to believe that somehow they will get through this. Our love for, and memories of Deb shall not diminish, but right now we must all pull together to support Peter and his two wonderful children.

Aida wrote on May 12, 2008 6:36 PM:Debbie was one of my best friends. I miss her so much that it still hurts. I am having the hardest time dealing with thid tragedy that happened. I believe I was the last person she spoke to before her accident. I was on the phone with her at 1:42pm on that Friday and we spoke only for a minute. She was leaving in the morning to visit her beautiful Daughter in college. Her husband, son and daughter are trying to heal from this devastation. Please keep all of us in your prayers. Debbie was the best friend a girl could ask for. She was always there for me and my family. I miss her so much.