WOODCREST, CA — A 35-year-old motorcyclist was killed Wednesday evening in a motorcycle crash with an SUV at a Woodcrest intersection, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Details of the Crash
The fatal collision occurred just after 5:00 p.m. at the intersection of Gardner Avenue and Van Buren Boulevard. CHP identified the motorcyclist as Brent Hoquist of Corona.
According to CHP Officer Javier Navarro, Hoquist was riding a Yamaha motorcycle eastbound on Van Buren Boulevard when he entered the intersection at a high rate of speed. At the same time, a Dodge SUV, driven by a 24-year-old Riverside woman, was traveling westbound and began making a left turn onto southbound Gardner Avenue.
Investigators said the SUV driver apparently failed to see the oncoming motorcycle. As the vehicle turned, the motorcycle struck the right front of the SUV, ejecting the rider onto the roadway.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Riverside County Fire Department paramedics arrived within minutes and found sheriff’s deputies performing CPR. Despite lifesaving efforts, Hoquist was pronounced dead at the scene.
The SUV driver stopped immediately and cooperated with the authorities. She was not injured and was not arrested. CHP stated that alcohol or drugs do not appear to have been factors in the crash.
The intersection remained partially closed for nearly two hours while officers cleared debris and conducted a preliminary investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Riverside CHP office at 951-324-7210.
Legal Rights After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash
When a motorcycle collision results in loss of life, families may have important rights under California law:
- Wrongful Death Claims — Code of Civil Procedure §377.60
Eligible family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. - Negligence & Duty of Care — Civil Code §1714
Drivers must use reasonable care when turning or entering intersections. Failure to yield or observe oncoming traffic may constitute negligence. - Comparative Negligence — Civil Code §1431.2
Even if multiple factors—such as speed or roadway conditions—are involved, families may still recover damages based on each party’s share of fault. - Right to a Full Investigation
Families may pursue accident reconstruction, witness statements, vehicle data, and traffic-camera footage to fully understand how the crash occurred.
Motorcyclist Attorney Is Here for You
At Motorcyclist Attorney, we help families affected by fatal motorcycle crashes seek answers, accountability, and justice. Our team works with experienced investigators and accident-reconstruction experts throughout California.
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