Riverside, CA (February 13, 2026) – Three people were hurt in a seven-vehicle collision at Lincoln Avenue and Van Buren Boulevard on the city’s west end on Thursday afternoon, according to the Riverside Fire Department.
Key Details
- Reported: Thursday, February 12 at 12:45 p.m.
- Location: Lincoln Ave and Van Buren Blvd, west Riverside
- Vehicles involved: Seven vehicles with varying degrees of damage
- Injuries: Three people sustained moderate to major injuries
- Additional evaluations: Four individuals assessed at the scene and declined further treatment
- Agency: Riverside Fire Department
What We Know So Far
- Fire crews arrived to find seven vehicles involved, blocking the intersection at Lincoln Ave and Van Buren Blvd.
- Authorities confirmed three individuals were transported or treated for moderate to major injuries.
- No arrests were reported in connection with the crash.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The sequence of events that led to the seven-vehicle collision.
- Whether speed, signal timing, or another factor contributed to the crash.
- The current conditions of those who were injured.
- Whether any citations will be issued following the investigation.
Local Context
The intersection of Lincoln Avenue and Van Buren Boulevard serves as a key connection point on Riverside’s west end, carrying traffic between residential neighborhoods and commercial corridors. A crash involving seven vehicles at this junction can significantly disrupt traffic flow and require coordinated emergency response efforts. Riverside Fire Department crews evaluated multiple people at the scene while assessing vehicle damage and helping clear the roadway. Investigators are continuing to examine what caused the chain-reaction collision.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved in the crash, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries before exiting your vehicle.
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with firefighters, paramedics, and police officers conducting the investigation.
- If it is safe, take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and traffic signals to document conditions at Lincoln Ave and Van Buren Blvd.
- Monitor your health in the hours following a collision, as some injuries may not become immediately apparent.
FAQ
Q: Why do multi-vehicle crashes take longer to clear?
A: With several vehicles involved, responders must assess multiple injuries, document damage patterns, and coordinate towing before reopening the intersection.
Q: What are common causes of intersection crashes?
A: Intersection collisions can occur due to failure to yield, running red lights, distracted driving, or misjudging the speed of cross-traffic.
Q: What happens when fire crews respond to a crash?
A: Firefighters and paramedics assess injuries, stabilize vehicles if necessary, assist with extrication when required, and help secure the scene for investigation.