A tragic collision claimed the lives of two local residents, John Teply and Vickie Hulstrand, both 41, on Sunday, July 20, 2025. The fatal crash occurred just before noon near 23530 Knabe Road, where a motorcycle and a Tesla collided under still-unclear circumstances.
According to the California Highway Patrol and Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department, the crash ignited a fire that was quickly extinguished by nearby Good Samaritans. One of the involved vehicles reportedly went down a nearby embankment. While the exact roles of the deceased in the crash have not been confirmed, whether they were in the car or on the motorcycle, both Teply and Hulstrand were pronounced dead at the scene.
A minor was also injured in the crash, though details on their condition and involvement remain limited. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
If you’ve lost a loved one or been injured in a serious collision, Singleton Schreiber is here to help you understand your rights and legal options. Call us today for a free consultation.
The Dangers of High-Impact Vehicle Collisions
Crashes between motorcycles and passenger vehicles, especially those involving high speeds, rollovers, or fire, can result in devastating consequences for everyone involved, regardless of the type of vehicle they’re in. In this case, the impact was so severe that one vehicle veered off the road, and the wreckage caught fire.
These kinds of collisions are often caused by:
- Speeding or sudden lane changes
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Failure to yield or misjudging another vehicle’s distance
- Limited visibility at intersections or curves
- Mechanical failure, such as brake or tire issues
Even in broad daylight, one misstep can cause a collision that affects not just drivers, but passengers and bystanders as well.
“Crashes involving both motorcycles and passenger vehicles are incredibly dangerous for everyone involved,” says Brett Schreiber, managing attorney of Singleton Schreiber. “Whether someone is riding a motorcycle or inside a car, the forces in these collisions can cause fatal injuries, particularly when there’s a rollover, fire, or an ejection from the vehicle. Understanding what went wrong and who may be liable is crucial for families seeking closure and accountability.”
Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Collision
While the investigation into the cause of the crash near Knabe Road is ongoing, the families of John Teply and Vickie Hulstrand may have the right to pursue wrongful death claims if evidence reveals that negligence by another party led to their deaths.
Depending on the findings, potentially responsible parties could include:
- The driver of either vehicle, if one acted recklessly or violated traffic laws
- A third party, such as another driver or a commercial entity
- A manufacturer, if vehicle malfunctions or design defects contributed
- Public agencies, if unsafe road conditions or signage played a role
Wrongful death and personal injury claims may help victims and their families recover compensation for:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical bills
- Loss of financial support
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- And more
At Singleton Schreiber, we stand with families navigating unimaginable loss. Our attorneys are experienced in investigating complex, multi-vehicle collisions, and we are committed to helping clients uncover the truth and pursue justice. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
