A tragic accident on Interstate 215 in Riverside resulted in the death of a 61-year-old motorcyclist on the evening of February 20th. The incident occurred shortly before 8 p.m. on the southbound lanes near Van Buren Boulevard.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) identified the victim as Stephanie Varieur, a Riverside resident. Varieur was operating a three-wheel Can-Am Spyder motorcycle when, under unclear circumstances, she veered right and collided with the big rig’s trailer. The impact caused the motorcycle to flip, ejecting Varieur onto the roadway. The truck driver, who remained uninjured, immediately pulled over to the shoulder, dragging the damaged motorcycle along.
Passing motorists intervened to shield Varieur from oncoming traffic until emergency services arrived. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The CHP temporarily closed three of the four lanes to conduct a preliminary investigation, reopening them by 10 p.m. Authorities are seeking additional information from witnesses to determine the exact cause of the collision.
The Risks of Motorcycle and Semi-Truck Accidents
Collisions between motorcycles and large commercial vehicles often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the significant size and weight disparity. In 2020, large trucks accounted for 9.1% of fatal accidents in California, underscoring the risks motorcyclists face when sharing the road with big rigs.
“Tragic events like these often stem from negligence, whether it’s inadequate vehicle maintenance, driver distraction, or failure to adhere to safety protocols,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner at Singleton Schreiber. “Victims and their families have the right to seek legal recourse to hold responsible parties accountable and obtain compensation for their losses.”
Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Crash
Families affected by fatal motorcycle accidents involving commercial vehicles may pursue wrongful death claims to alleviate financial burdens associated with:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of income and support
- Emotional distress and suffering
If your family has been impacted by a similar tragedy, the legal team at Singleton Schreiber is prepared to provide compassionate assistance. Contact us at (619) 771-3473 or email info@singletonschreiber.com.
