Riverside, CA (January 4, 2025) – A fatal car crash occurred on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at the intersection of Collett Avenue and Stonewall Drive in Riverside, taking the life of 75-year-old Cathy Coiner.
Accident Details: According to Riverside police, the crash occurred around 6:30 p.m. Cathy Coiner was driving a 2005 Jeep Liberty eastbound when she slowed to turn left from Collett Avenue. A 2014 Toyota Tundra driven by a 38-year-old Norco man rear-ended her vehicle. The force of the collision pushed Coiner’s Jeep into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with a red 2014 Toyota C-HR driven by a 70-year-old Riverside resident. Coiner was transported to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries. The condition of the driver of the Toyota C-HR remains unclear.
Investigation: The Tundra driver from Norco was arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated and was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center. Authorities are continuing their investigation and have urged witnesses to come forward.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic incident raises critical legal questions regarding liability and accountability:
- Impaired Driving: The suspected DUI driver may face both criminal charges and civil liability for causing the crash. Impaired driving is generally considered negligent, as it violates laws designed to protect public safety.
- Municipal Investigation: Examining road conditions, signage, and traffic control measures at the intersection may help determine if other contributing factors played a role.
Wrongful Death: The family of Cathy Coiner may pursue a wrongful death claim against the DUI driver. Such claims aim to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional distress caused by the untimely loss of a loved one.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Cathy Coiner during this difficult time.
Source: My News LA