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On the evening of Sunday, August 31, a tragic collision between a vehicle and two riders on horseback occurred on westbound Highway 371 near Bailiff Road in Anza, California. The collision claimed the life of 48-year-old Monique Morton of Anza, injured a 34-year-old rider, and killed both horses.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Riverside County Fire Department, Morton and the 34-year-old woman from Temecula were part of a group riding along eastbound Highway 371 at Contreras Road when one horse entered the roadway. Morton followed the horse to assist, and at the same time, a vehicle driven by a 70-year-old motorist traveling westbound collided with the horses and riders.
Both riders were thrown onto the roadway. Monique Morton was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second rider sustained major injuries and was airlifted to the Desert Regional Medical Center. CHP reports that alcohol or drugs do not appear to have contributed to the crash, though the investigation remains ongoing. Both horses were killed in the incident, though it remains unclear whether they died from the impact or were humanely euthanized due to injuries.
If you or a loved one were impacted by this accident, contact Singleton Schreiber to learn more about your legal options.
Legal Options Available To The Injured Rider and The Family of Monique Morton
A sudden collision like this leaves survivors and families facing not only emotional devastation but also overwhelming financial burdens. Medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income or support can quickly compound the grief that follows such a tragic accident. In these circumstances, pursuing legal action may help secure the resources needed to cover expenses and provide stability during recovery. Singleton Schreiber is committed to helping clients navigate this process with care and compassion. Legal options for both the injured rider and the family of Monique Morton may include the following.
For the injured rider:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity if injuries prevent returning to work
- Pain and suffering, including physical pain, emotional trauma, and psychological impacts
- Costs for long-term care or adaptive equipment if injuries result in permanent disability
For the family of Monique Morton:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
- Potentially wrongful death claims if negligence contributed to the accident
- Financial losses resulting from the death, including contributions to household or family support
“These kinds of accidents leave families reeling,” says Brett Schreiber, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber personal injury law firm. “There is no way to undo the loss, but our role is to help ease the burden by fighting for justice and securing the resources survivors and families need to move forward. We take pride in guiding our clients through the legal process so they don’t feel alone during one of the most difficult times of their lives.”
If you or a loved one were affected by this tragic accident, don’t wait to seek the support you need. Contact Singleton Schreiber today to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced team will listen to your story, explain your options, and work tirelessly to pursue the compensation you and your family deserve.
