Riverside, CA (January 10, 2025) – On the morning of Wednesday, January 10, 2024, Riverside County Sheriff’s Deputy Timothy Corlew tragically lost his life in a freeway collision.
Accident Details: The incident occurred at approximately 5:35 a.m. on the westbound 91 Freeway near La Sierra Avenue in Riverside. Deputy Corlew was operating his patrol motorcycle in the HOV lane when he encountered stopped traffic across all lanes. For reasons still under investigation, Corlew’s motorcycle collided with the rear of a Toyota Lexus. The impact ejected him from the motorcycle, causing him to land on a Hyundai sedan.
Paramedics arrived promptly and transported Deputy Corlew to Riverside Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the Lexus sustained minor injuries, while the Hyundai’s occupant was unharmed. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident, with its Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team analyzing the collision.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
- Driver Responsibility: In cases involving a rear-end collision, investigators often examine whether all drivers exercised reasonable care. Contributing factors might include whether the drivers were distracted, speeding, or following too closely.
- Roadway Conditions: Investigators will examine road design, any defects, and whether adequate signage was in place. If not, the municipality may be liable.
- Motorcycle-Specific Concerns: Motorcycles are inherently more vulnerable due to their size and lack of protection. The investigation will likely assess whether any mechanical failure of Deputy Corlew’s patrol motorcycle played a role in the crash.
- Potential Employer Liability: If Deputy Corlew was operating within the scope of his duties, the sheriff’s department may also examine whether the equipment provided, including the patrol motorcycle, met all safety standards.
Wrongful Death Considerations: If any negligence is identified, Deputy Corlew’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim. With this claim, they may be able to recover damages such as funeral expenses, lost earnings, and emotional suffering.
I offer my condolences to Deputy Timothy Corlew’s loved ones and the sheriff’s department as they navigate this difficult time.
Source: Desert Sun