Motorcyclist Killed in Turlock Hit-and-Run Accident
I’m Ed Smith, a Turlock motorcycle accident attorney. A hit-and-run accident on Sunday took the life of a 55-year-old man from Delhi who was riding his motorcycle.
What Happened?
According to a report from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the accident occurred on Sunday, October 15 just after 2am and just south of the town Turlock. The police report states that a 23-year-old man, identified as Edgardo Reynoso, was operating his GMC at high rates of speed. The GMC was traveling southbound on Lander Avenue just north of East Clausen Road.
The Accident Details
The police report notes that the GMC plowed into the rear of the motorcycle, a 2011 special construction bike (SPCN). The motorcyclist was thrown from the motorcycle and into the road, where he was struck by two vehicles behind the GMC that could not stop in time. The rider, identified as Gary Bucol, was pronounced dead by emergency responders at the scene.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the friends and family of Mr. Bucol during this difficult time.
Suspect Fled the Scene
The suspect fled the scene immediately but was later located and arrested by officers from the CHP. The report from the CHP did not mention how Reynoso was located. He suffered minor injuries in the crash and has since been charged with hit-and-run causing death or injury and voluntary manslaughter. The other two drivers, a man from Turlock and a woman from Hilmar, who hit Bucol were not injured in the crash and likely will not face charges. The CHP did not know if drugs or alcohol played a role in the accident.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
Riding a motorcycle is both exhilarating and dangerous at the same time. Riders must be extra vigilant when on their bikes and ride with the notion that other drivers will not see them. This is quite possibly one of the most important safety tips a motorcycle rider should follow when operating a bike. Some other safety tips that can help you prevent accidents causing traumatic injuries include the following:
- Always wear reflective gear
- Wear proper clothing (close-toed shoes, long pants, long-sleeve shirts)
- Wear a helmet
- Obey posted speed limits
- Follow the rules of the road
- Avoid lane splitting (despite it being legal in CA)
- Create a buffer at intersections
- Check lights prior to riding
- Ensure bike works properly prior to riding
Motorcycle riders who take the time to inspect their bikes will find that their ride is a less stressful one when they know that all of the components work properly. Another important tip is to go for a practice ride in a controlled environment if you haven’t ridden a motorcycle in quite some time.
Related Articles by Turlock Motorcycle Accident Attorney, Ed Smith:
- Head-On Collision Fatally Injures Turlock Man
- Turlock Man Sentenced for DUI Head-On Collision
- Accident Involving Traffic Pole Near Turlock
Turlock Motorcycle Accident Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Turlock motorcycle accident attorney. Have you lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident due to the negligent actions of another? Call me at your earliest convenience for compassionate, free, and friendly legal advice. If you call from the Turlock area I can be reached at (209) 227-1931. If you call from outside the Turlock area I can be reached toll-free at (800) 404-5400. You can also contact me via my website, AutoAccident.com.
I have been serving the Turlock and Greater California community for more than 35 years, helping injured motorcyclists and their families recover from accidents involving wrongful death and personal injury. Please review the testimonials written by my former clients on sites like Google, Yelp, and Avvo.
You can also read through some of my prior cases on my verdicts and settlements page, found on my website, AutoAccident.com.
I am member of the national organization known as the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. This association honors trial lawyers who have secured million-dollar or more settlements and awards for their clients.