[05-16-2025] Riverside County, CA – One Seriously Injured in Two-Truck Crash on Ortega Highway Near El Cariso

One person was seriously injured in a two-truck collision that occurred on Ortega Highway near El Cariso, Riverside County, on Friday morning, May 16, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash happened shortly after 9:00 a.m. when an eastbound dump truck trailer jackknifed near milepost 9 for unknown reasons, blocking the roadway.

A westbound black Chevrolet Silverado subsequently collided with the dump truck, trapping the Silverado driver inside.

Cal Fire/Riverside County Firefighters responded to the scene and extricated the victim within approximately 20 minutes. The injured driver was transported by ground ambulance to a nearby hospital with major injuries, according to Cal Fire spokesperson Karina Espinoza.

Westbound lanes were closed during the rescue operation, and Ortega Highway was shut down in both directions for about an hour.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. No additional details have been released at this time.

Speak With Our Truck Accident Attorneys In Riverside County, CA

Accidents involving large trucks can result in serious injuries and major disruptions to everyday life. The financial strain of medical bills, time off work, and ongoing recovery can leave individuals feeling uncertain about their next steps.

Our truck accident attorneys in Riverside County are here to help you understand your legal options. These cases can involve multiple parties, such as trucking companies and insurance providers, and often require careful examination of documents, reports, and records. Having support throughout this process can help you stay organized and make informed decisions.

If you would like to discuss your case with an attorney, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule an initial consultation at no cost.

Steps To Take After a Truck Accident

A collision with a large commercial vehicle can be overwhelming and leave you uncertain about what to do next. Taking immediate action to protect your health and legal rights is essential. Here are some steps to follow after an accident:

1. Ensure Safety
   If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or to a safe area away from traffic. Stay clear of any moving vehicles and wait in a secure location until help arrives.
2. Check For Injuries
   Start by evaluating your own condition. Once you’re sure you are okay, check on others involved in the accident. If anyone appears seriously injured or unresponsive, call 911 immediately for emergency assistance.
3. Document The Scene
   If you are able, take photos or videos of the accident scene. Capture the positions of the vehicles, road conditions, visible injuries, and damages. Collect the truck driver’s name, license number, employer information, and insurance details. Be sure to gather contact information from any witnesses.
4. Get Medical Attention
   Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable. A medical evaluation can uncover hidden injuries and create a record that may be necessary later.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
   Report the accident to your insurance provider and provide a clear account of the incident. Avoid giving a recorded statement until you fully understand your rights. Even if the other party is expected to cover the damages, your insurer may assist you with the claims process.
6. Consult A Truck Accident Attorney
   If you have any questions or concerns, speaking with a truck accident attorney can be beneficial. An experienced attorney can review the details of your case, help you stay organized, and offer guidance on the next steps.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Truck Accidents Statistics

In 2022, 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes, according to the National Safety Council. This marks a 1.8% increase from the previous year and a 49% rise over the last decade. Large trucks were responsible for 6% of all vehicle-related fatalities in 2022.

While trucks represent only a small portion of the vehicles on the road, they account for roughly 10% of all vehicle miles traveled across the country.

Regarding non-fatal crashes, approximately 120,200 trucks were involved in accidents that caused injuries in 2022. This represents a 2.5% increase from 2021. Since 2016, the number of injury-related truck accidents has risen by 18%, and the rate of truck involvement per 100 million miles traveled has increased by 5.7% during the same period.