A man on a Harley Davidson was tragically struck and killed this weekend in Santa Cruz County. KION-TV reported the motorcycle accident occurred Sunday evening along Highway 129, also known as Riverside Drive, on May 28, 2023.
The California Highway Patrol responded to the scene just east of Murphy Road, east of Watsonville, sometime after 7:30 p.m. They say that the man on his Harley Davidson was traveling east when he was struck by a Toyota Corolla traveling west. It’s not known what caused the Toyota’s driver to run into the motorcycle.
The man on the motorcycle was found with major injuries and was rushed to Natividad Medical Center in Salinas. He was later pronounced dead from his injuries. The victim was identified as a 54-year-old man from Hollister.
The California Highway Patrol out of Santa Cruz continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Hazards Along Hwy 129 for Santa Cruz County Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists enjoy the curves and ups and downs that many Santa Cruz County roads provide. Many riders spend their weekends enjoying the beauty of the area. Unfortunately, careless drivers also use local roads and they can have trouble staying in their lanes.
They also often claim they don’t see the motorcyclists traveling around them, but it’s often that they don’t take the time to really look out for riders and show them caution.
Local law enforcement recorded 110 motorcycle accidents involving injury across Santa Cruz County in 2022. Those accidents accounted for three deaths for the year. That tragic number was down slightly from 2021 when an estimated seven riders lost their lives.
These injuries and fatalities are more than numbers. They also represent the families and friends affected by tragedies. It’s critical that all drivers get a reminder that being more focused on the road can help all motorcyclists get home safely after a ride.
A word for victims after a Santa Cruz County motorcycle accident…
If you or a loved one has been victimized in a motorcycle collision in Santa Cruz or San Benito County, you should be aware of the benefits available to you and your family through an insurance claim. Financial support should be expected to assist families left behind with hospital bills and funeral costs. Support should also cover the income the deceased can no longer provide to a spouse or children.
You can read more about earning insurance support after a collision on my page about wrongful death motorcycle accident claims.
