One motorcyclist was killed, and two others were injured following a multi-vehicle collision in Winton, Merced County, on Saturday evening, September 16, 2023.

The California Highway Patrol reported a tragic incident involving three vehicles at the Walnut and Vine Avenues intersection around 6:45 p.m.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a 66-year-old man from Delhi, operating a 2017 TriGlide Harley-Davidson, was traveling westbound on Walnut Ave approaching the intersection of Vine Ave. Another Harley-Davidson Motorcycle traveling westbound with a 30-year-old man and an 11-year-old child was already stopped at the Vine Ave stop sign.

Authorities stated that the TriGlide motorcycle, failing to stop at the sign, rear-ended the second motorcycle as it started moving forward. Tragically, the rider of the TriGlide was forcefully ejected, and the occupants of the other motorcycle veered through the intersection, colliding with a stationary SUV.

Emergency services took the 66-year-old rider to Merced Medical Center, where he tragically died from his injuries. The man driving the second motorcycle was injured but refused medical treatment, while the child was taken to Valley Children’s Hospital with critical injuries.

No further details were released, and no indication of drugs or alcohol playing a role in the Accident. The investigation is ongoing.

Our Merced County Injury Law Firm Specializing in Motorcycle Accidents

In a Motorcycle Accident leading to injuries or loss of life, affected individuals or their family members can pursue compensation through their state’s civil court system. Our skilled group of motorcycle accident attorneys in Merced County is here to support you.

We are well-prepared to assess each case carefully, provide expert counsel throughout the legal process, and thoroughly examine any pertinent factors that could impact the final resolution. We offer a complimentary initial consultation to grasp your case’s circumstances better.

You can place your trust in Arash Law, a highly reputable Merced County injury law firm led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to assist you in navigating insurance claims or providing vigorous representation in legal proceedings. Our firm has successfully recovered over $500 Million for clients across California.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

10 Important Things To Do After a Motorcycle Accident

By comprehending the essential actions to be taken following a motorcycle accident, families can acquire the strength and confidence required to pursue justice and strive for financial stability in the face of adversity.

• Check for injuries: First and foremost, check yourself and others involved for any damages. If there are serious injuries, call emergency medical services immediately.
• Move to safety: If possible, move your motorcycle and yourself to a safe area away from traffic to avoid further risks.
• Report to the police: Always report the accident to the police, no matter how minor it may seem. Having an official statement is essential for insurance and legal purposes.
• Exchange information: Get contact and insurance details from all parties involved in the accident. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses present.
• Document the scene: Take photos of the accident, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
• Avoid admitting fault: Refrain from discussing responsibility or accepting blame for the accident. Let the authorities and insurance companies determine fault based on the evidence.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel okay, getting a medical evaluation is crucial to identifying any hidden injuries that may have occurred.
• Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance provider immediately.
• Get legal advice: If injuries or significant property damage occur, consult a motorcycle accident lawyer in California to protect your rights and navigate the legal process.
• Preserve evidence: Keep records of medical reports, expenses, repair costs, and any other relevant documents related to the accident.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Fatal Motorcycle Accident Statistics

As per information provided by the National Safety Council, motorcycles make up a minor fraction, only 3%, of the total registered vehicles and contribute to just 0.6% of the overall vehicle mileage in the United States. Despite their relatively low presence on the roads, motorcycles are responsible for an alarmingly disproportionate share of traffic fatalities. In 2021, they were responsible for 14% of all traffic fatalities, 17% of occupant fatalities, and 3% of occupant injuries.

Using helmets plays a pivotal role in reducing fatalities linked to motorcycle accidents. Although there was a marginal 2% decrease in the death rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, motorcycle-related fatalities increased by 8% in 2021 compared to the previous year.

Over the past ten years, there has been a 19% surge in motorcycle fatalities and a 29% rise in death rates. These statistics underscore the pressing need to address motorcycle safety to mitigate the inherent risks of motorcycle riding.