Mauricio Cortez arrested after motorcycle crash on West Fourth Street

Police said he was under the influence of a controlled substance after the Perris crash

August 05, 2026 | Perris, CA

What happened in the crash?

Mauricio Cruz Cortez, 61, was arrested on suspicion of DUI after a crash with a motorcyclist in the 500 block of West Fourth Street in Perris.
• Date and time: Aug. 5 at approximately 2:20 p.m.
• Location: 500 block of West Fourth Street, Perris, CA
• Parties involved: Motorcyclist and vehicle driven by Mauricio Cruz Cortez, 61
• Injuries: Motorcyclist critically injured
• Arrest: Cortez arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence causing serious bodily injury
• Status: Investigation ongoing by Perris police

Why do these accidents happen?

Impaired drivers often experience reduced judgment, impaired vision, slower reaction times, and poor coordination. National data from the CDC shows thousands of such preventable incidents occur annually.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, separate from criminal charges, a victim may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party. In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and text records of the liable party. As an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide an injured victim during this difficult time, protecting their legal rights, while ensuring that a driver who takes the wheel under the influence is held accountable for their actions.

Key takeaways:

• Victims may pursue recovery for medical expenses, future care, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma
• Civil claims remain available regardless of criminal proceedings
• Prompt documentation and witness statements strengthen potential cases

Although no amount of money can make up for a devastating injury, it is important that a victim is made aware of their rights and what they are entitled to by law. The injured victim in this collision may be entitled to an injury claim.

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