![[07-18-2024] Driver Killed, Passenger Injured Following Two-Vehicle Collision Along SR-371](https://ak1.to//lurD.webp)
A driver was killed, and a passenger was injured following a two-vehicle collision in Riverside County on Thursday night, July 18, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 9:42 p.m. along SR-371, north of Cahuilla Creek Bridge and east of Temecula.
Authorities stated that a Toyota Camry, driven by a 72-year-old Orange County man, was traveling southbound on the freeway, just north of Cahuilla Creek Bridge at 45 to 55 mph. At the same time, a jackknifed 2019 Ford Transit van with a 2003 Carso Fun Runner travel trailer was blocking SR-371 just north of the bridge.
The Toyota driver failed to notice the stalled rig and collided head-on with the trailer’s left rear corner, causing major damage to the sedan and injuries to its occupants. He was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center in critical condition and later died due to his injuries.
The passenger of the Toyota, identified as a 66-year-old female, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Wildomar’s Inland Valley Hospital via ground ambulance. It is unknown if anyone else was injured.
Alcohol did not appear to be a factor in the collision.
CHP is investigating the incident.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
