[05-16-2025] Merced County, CA – Motorcyclist Killed, Driver Seriously Injured in Head-On Crash on Highway 59 Near Snelling Road

A 72-year-old man was killed and another man seriously injured following a head-on collision involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck in Merced County on Friday morning, May 16, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just before 9:45 a.m. on Highway 59 at Snelling Road.

A 92-year-old Coulterville man was driving a 2017 Toyota pickup truck southbound on Highway 59 when he approached the intersection and began to make a left turn.

At the same time, a 72-year-old man from Hilmar was riding a 2000 Honda motorcycle northbound on the highway at approximately 55 miles per hour. For unknown reasons, the pickup driver made an unsafe left turn into the path of the oncoming motorcyclist, resulting in a head-on collision.

The motorcyclist was ejected and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the pickup sustained major injuries and was airlifted to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto for treatment.

CHP confirmed that the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Alcohol and drugs do not appear to be contributing factors.

The incident remains under investigation.

Call Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys In Merced County, CA

Motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injuries and significant financial and emotional strain. Even experienced riders are vulnerable to hazards such as negligent drivers and unsafe road conditions.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, learning about your legal rights may help you understand what steps are available to you. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Merced County assist by reviewing case details, helping organize documentation, and explaining how the claims process typically works.

If you would like more information, you can call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After Sustaining Injuries In A Motorcycle Accident

If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident, taking the right steps at the scene and immediately afterward is crucial to ensure your safety and protect your interests. Here’s what you should do:

1. If you’re injured, call 911 right away. Try not to move until help arrives. Moving too much could make your injuries worse.
2. Report the accident to law enforcement, even if it seems minor. The police will document the scene and gather information for a report.
3. Get the names, contact details, driver’s licenses, and insurance information of everyone involved in the accident. Include the witnesses’ contact information.
4. If you’re able, take pictures of the scene, all vehicles involved, and any visible injuries and damages. Also, note if any traffic or surveillance cameras in the area might have captured the incident.
5. Be cautious when reviewing any settlement offers. Early proposals from insurance companies may not fully reflect the scope of your injuries or damages.
6. Consider speaking with a motorcycle accident attorney in Merced County to better understand your options before making any decisions. Legal professionals may assist with documentation and insurance-related communications, depending on your situation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle riders continue to be disproportionately involved in fatal traffic crashes. In 2023, 6,335 motorcyclists lost their lives, which accounted for 15% of all traffic fatalities. According to NHTSA data, this represents the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities recorded since 1975. To improve safety for all road users, it is important for both drivers and motorcyclists to remain vigilant and share the road. Motorcyclists are encouraged to increase their visibility, wear DOT-approved helmets, and always ride sober.