Motorcyclist Dies in Head-on Collision on Ortega Highway

A Costa Mesa man died this morning when his motorcycle collided with another vehicle on a remote stretch of the Ortega Highway (74) west of Lake Elsinore.

According to a California Highway Patrol news release, the incident occurred at about 11:17 a.m. west of Monte Vista Road, near El Cariso Village. A Honda Accord, being driven by a 24-year-old man from Lake Elsinore, was traveling westbound and attempted to pass slower traffic at a location designated for passing by moving into the eastbound lane.

The driver of the Honda observed the motorcycle approaching in an eastbound direction and he applied his brakes. The driver of the Honda was unable to avoid colliding with the motorcycle and the vehicles collided head on. This impact caused major damage to the Honda and the motorcycle.

The motorcycle rider, a 56-year-old man whose name has not been released, was ejected and landed on the right shoulder. He suffered fatal injuries during the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation is on going. Alcohol and/or drugs does not appear to be a factor in the collision.