Fatal Motorcycle Crash on Cypress Avenue in Redding

Motorcyclist Killed on Cypress

On Thursday, June 24, 2021, at approximately 2:00 p.m., a fatal motorcycle accident occurred near the East Cypress Avenue and Bechelli Lane intersection. The Redding Police Department (RPD) responded to the scene, and their investigation results led them to conclude that the motorcyclist was attempting to pass a Penske truck in the center turn lane when the crash occurred. 

Details of the Collision

Witness statements were taken, and video footage from nearby surveillance cameras was reviewed. RPD said that the commercial truck was traveling west on Cypress Avenue in the number one lane, and the motorcyclist was in the same direction behind the truck. They were west of Bechelli Lane. The rider attempted to pass the Penske in the center turn lane, at which time it began to execute a left-hand turn into the Redding Subaru lot.

The motorcycle struck the truck on the driver’s side and then was trapped underneath the cargo area as it continued to drive into the lot, dragging the bike along and causing it to ignite. 

The motorcyclist was a 66-year-old Redding resident. First responders quickly rendered aid at the scene, and he was then transported by ambulance to an area hospital. Sadly, despite prompt medical attention, he ultimately succumbed to his extensive injuries. 

Further Investigation

The Commercial Enforcement Unit of the California Highway Patrol (CHP) was called to the scene to investigate. Upon inspection, they found some violations concerning the Penske vehicle. The truck’s origin, as was the load, was suspicious – it carried more than 900 catalytic converters. Investigation into the origins of the catalytic converters has been taken over by detectives with RPD. No arrests are expected to be made related to the collision.

East Cypress Avenue in the crash area (between Beverly Drive and Bechelli Lane) was closed for several hours as officials gathered evidence. The Special Services Unit of RPD still investigating the fatal incident, and anyone with further information on the crash should contact RPD at (530) 225-4200.

The Center Turn Lane

Some reasons center turn lanes, which accommodate both directions of traffic, are informally referred to as “suicide lanes.” The lanes are designed for motorists to enter traffic from a side street or parking lot or make a left-hand turn. However, they are often misused, and serious accidents can occur when that is the case. Here are some ways in which a center turn lane should not be used:

  • The center turn lane is not for traveling. These lanes should not be used for more than 200 to 400 feet before merging into traffic or executing a turn. 
  • The center lane is not to be used for passing other vehicles. Some witnesses to the recent Redding accident indicate that the motorcyclist may have been trying to pass the Penske truck. Such a maneuver puts the passer at risk of not being seen by other motorists. If the accident occurred as reported, the truck driver may not have expected a motorcycle to have been on his left in the center turn lane and did not clear the way before beginning his left turn.
  • The center lane is not the shoulder. If a car is experiencing mechanical issues, the center lane is not an area to pull over and stop.

Watch the YouTube video. Below is a clip from an online traffic school discussing using a center left-turn lane.

Redding Personal Injury Lawyer

Thank you for reading. We are saddened to report on another fatal crash in Northern California. I’m Ed Smith, a Redding, California personal injury lawyer. If you suffered injuries in an accident or experienced the loss of a loved one in an accident that resulted in wrongful death, our compassionate injury lawyers can help. Call us for free and friendly legal advice at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400. If you prefer, you can also send your questions through our online form.

Photo Attribution: Pixabay

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