Merced County, CA – A motorcyclist died on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, after a fatal accident in Merced on Highway 152, east of the Romero Visitor Center, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The 71-year-old rider was pronounced dead at the scene despite wearing a helmet.
Accident Details
The tragic incident occurred around 4:32 p.m. on the eastbound lanes of Highway 152, near Los Banos. The man was riding a 2005 Yamaha motorcycle at approximately 70 mph in lane No. 1.
According to CHP, the motorcyclist attempted to take a curve but lost control of the vehicle, veering off the north edge of the road into a dirt and gravel area. There, he struck a metal guardrail.
Despite wearing a proper helmet, the injuries were fatal. Authorities withheld the rider’s identity until the family could be notified.
Authorities reported that neither alcohol nor drugs appear to have been factors in the crash.
The Reality for Older Motorcyclists in California
Riding a motorcycle at any age comes with risks, but for older adults, the likelihood of severe or fatal injuries increases significantly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists over the age of 65 are twice as likely to die in crashes compared to younger riders due to factors such as slower reaction times and increased bone fragility.
Additionally, Highway 152 is known for its sharp curves and limited visibility in certain areas, making it a critical hotspot for accidents in California’s Central Region.
How Can Motorcyclist Attorney Help?
At Motorcyclist Attorney, we honor those who have lost their lives on California roads and support their families in the pursuit of justice and compensation. We investigate every case thoroughly and fight to ensure that unsafe road conditions or poor maintenance do not go unpunished.
- Free consultation to evaluate your case
- Aggressive representation to secure maximum compensation
The medical care you need and the financial recovery you deserve
If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident in California, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re with you every step of the way.
