Bermuda Dunes, CA - Three Hospitalized After Fiery Crash Involving Truck on Washington St

Bermuda Dunes, CA (April 11, 2025) – A fiery crash involving a Jeep and a truck sent three people to the hospital Tuesday night in Riverside County, according to CAL FIRE and the California Highway Patrol.

The collision occurred just before 9:00 p.m. on April 8 along Washington Street, north of Avenue 42 in Bermuda Dunes. Authorities say the crash ended with one of the vehicles striking a tree and bursting into flames.

Witnesses at the scene told first responders that the driver of the burning truck may have fled before law enforcement arrived. The vehicle was fully engulfed in fire when emergency crews arrived. CAL FIRE units were able to extinguish the flames while CHP officers secured the scene.

Three people were treated on-site by paramedics and then transported to a local hospital for additional care. The extent of their injuries has not yet been released. It remains unclear which individuals were in which vehicle at the time of the crash.

CHP is investigating the cause of the collision and the report of a possible hit-and-run involving the truck’s driver.

We hope all those injured in this accident make a full recovery.

Car Accidents in California

Crashes involving fire are particularly dangerous and not uncommon in California, especially on roadways where high speeds, dry conditions, or single-vehicle impacts with trees or poles can quickly lead to ignition. In 2023, California saw thousands of vehicle-related injuries and over 3,900 fatalities, many of which occurred in the Inland Empire region.

When a vehicle catches fire after a crash, it raises serious concerns. Here are a few important points about vehicle fires and crash-related injuries:

• Burn Injuries: Flames or intense heat can cause serious burns to occupants. These injuries often require skin grafts, long-term hospitalization, and specialized burn care centers.
• Smoke Inhalation: Even without direct contact with flames, inhaling toxic smoke can lead to severe respiratory damage. Victims may require oxygen support or long-term breathing treatments.
• Fuel Leaks and Explosions: Crashes that rupture fuel tanks pose an immediate fire risk. A small spark can ignite vapors and cause a fast-spreading blaze, endangering everyone nearby.
• Fleeing Drivers: When someone leaves the scene, it complicates the investigation and can limit the victim’s access to compensation unless that driver is later identified and held accountable.
• Emotional Trauma: Being involved in a fiery crash is traumatic. Survivors often experience anxiety, nightmares, or PTSD, requiring counseling or other mental health support.

If you were hurt in a crash—especially one involving a fire or a hit-and-run—you deserve answers and support. Contact our Bermuda Dunes car accident attorneys at Countrywide Trial Lawyers today. We can work to identify all responsible parties, locate missing drivers, and ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a serious crash can be. Our founder, Shawn S. Rokni, used to represent insurance companies and now uses that experience to advocate for everyday people. With over $100 million recovered and more than 5,000 cases successfully handled, we’re ready to help you through this. We’ve studied case valuation at Harvard Law and bring that insight into every claim we handle. Call us at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation. Let us help you move forward with strength and clarity.