MADERA COUNTY, CA — An 86-year-old Harley-Davidson rider died after a motorcycle accident in Madera County on Highway 41, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Details of the Crash
The collision occurred around 8:00 p.m. on June 19 on Highway 41, north of Highway 145.
According to CHP, Richard “Ed” Edward Tannehill, 86, of North Fork, was riding a 2014 Harley-Davidson northbound behind a 2011 Mercedes E350 driven by a 19-year-old Fresno resident.
Investigators said the Mercedes driver moved onto the right shoulder with the intention of making a U-turn to travel southbound. During the maneuver, the driver reportedly failed to see the approaching motorcycle, causing the two vehicles to collide.
The impact ejected Tannehill from his motorcycle.
Emergency responders transported him to Community Regional Medical Center with major injuries, where he later died.
CHP reported that the Mercedes driver was wearing a seat belt and Tannehill was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Authorities said alcohol and drugs are not believed to have been factors, and the investigation remains ongoing.
U-Turn Motorcycle Accidents Can Have Deadly Consequences
Motorcycle crashes involving U-turns often occur when drivers fail to recognize an approaching rider before crossing their path.
Because motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, they can be more difficult to detect, particularly during turning maneuvers on highways.
Investigators typically examine factors such as:
- Whether the turn could be made safely
- Driver visibility and line of sight
- Speed and distance of the motorcycle
- Roadway conditions
- Physical evidence from the crash scene
Legal Rights After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident
When a motorcycle collision results in the loss of life, surviving family members may have important legal rights under California law.
Wrongful Death Claims
Under California Code of Civil Procedure §377.60, eligible family members may pursue compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
- Other economic and non-economic damages permitted by law
Driver Responsibility
California Civil Code §1714 requires drivers to exercise reasonable care when operating a vehicle. If a driver makes an unsafe turning movement or fails to see an approaching motorcycle, that conduct may establish civil liability.
Right to a Full Investigation
Families may seek answers through:
- Accident reconstruction
- Vehicle inspections
- Witness interviews
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
- Roadway and visibility analysis
These investigations help determine exactly how the collision occurred and whether it could have been prevented.
Motorcyclist Attorney — Helping Families After Fatal Motorcycle Crashes
At Motorcyclist Attorney, we understand the devastating impact of losing a loved one in a motorcycle accident.
Our team helps families:
- Investigate fatal motorcycle collisions
- Preserve critical evidence from the earliest stages of the case
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Pursue justice and full financial recovery
We offer:
- Free consultations
- No upfront fees
- Compassionate representation for riders and their families
The medical treatment you need. The money you deserve.
📞 Contact Motorcyclist Attorney today for a free, confidential consultation.
