Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA (May 12, 2024) — A severe multi-vehicle accident early Sunday morning on Highway 1 south of Carpenter Street resulted in the death of a motorcyclist, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The crash involved a sequence of collisions initiated by a truck hitting a utility pole.
Incident Overview: At around 5:52 a.m., a black Ford F-150 driven by a 17-year-old male was traveling northbound on Highway 1 when it veered across the southbound lanes and struck a utility pole on the west side of the road. The impact caused the pole and electrical wires to fall across all lanes, leading to subsequent collisions involving four other southbound vehicles. The final vehicle involved was a red and black Honda CBR1000 motorcycle, operated by 44-year-old Ricardo De Orta-Garcia of Seaside. De Orta-Garcia was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The CHP is conducting a thorough investigation to determine why the initial crash occurred and to assess the overall chain of events. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining the liability of the young driver and the potential for any legal actions by the families of those involved. Given that the crash led to a fatality, the investigation’s findings will be critical in understanding the sequence of events and any contributing negligence. Based on preliminary information, the family of Ricardo De Orta-Garcia could consider pursuing a wrongful death claim.
I extend my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Ricardo De Orta-Garcia. I hope that they receive the support they need following this awful accident.
Source: KSBW