Motorcyclist Killed in Head-On Collision With Truck on Coloma Road Near Rattlesnake Bar Road – September 20, 2025
Accident Overview:
A motorcyclist was killed on September 20, 2025, following a head-on collision with a pickup truck on Coloma Road near Rattlesnake Bar Road in El Dorado County. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Accident Type | Fatal Head-On Collision |
| Location | Coloma Rd & Rattlesnake Bar Rd, El Dorado County, CA |
| Date | September 20, 2025 |
| Parties Involved | Motorcyclist, pickup truck driver |
| Injuries | Unspecified for truck driver |
| Fatalities | One (motorcyclist) |
| Law Enforcement | CHP – El Dorado Area |
| Legal Note | The family may pursue a wrongful death claim pending investigation results |
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🚨 What Happened
Around mid-morning on Saturday, a motorcyclist traveling on Coloma Road collided head-on with a pickup truck near the Rattlesnake Bar Road intersection. The road is known for its narrow turns and limited visibility, which may have contributed to the crash. CHP officers responded and confirmed the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary reports suggest one of the vehicles crossed into oncoming traffic, although CHP has not released the final collision report. Investigators remained on scene for several hours to reconstruct the crash and determine fault. Weather and road conditions were reportedly clear at the time.
🧑⚕️ Medical Response
- Emergency personnel pronounced the motorcyclist deceased on scene.
- No information on whether the truck driver was transported or treated.
🚔 Investigation Underway
CHP El Dorado Area is handling the investigation. No arrests or citations have been issued yet, pending review of dashcam footage, witness statements, and physical evidence. Anyone with information is urged to contact CHP directly.
⚖️ Legal Options
Wrongful Death Lawsuit
If the truck driver is found at fault, the victim’s family may file a wrongful death claim to recover damages including funeral expenses, lost future income, and emotional loss.
Comparative Fault Considerations
Even if the motorcyclist was partially at fault (e.g., speeding or lane deviation), California’s comparative negligence laws may still allow for partial recovery in a civil case.
Insurance Negotiation & Litigation
Surviving family members should avoid quick settlements and instead consult a personal injury attorney who can deal directly with insurers or litigate if necessary.
📊 Statistics
📈 Motorcycles are involved in 14% of all traffic fatalities in California, despite making up less than 4% of registered vehicles.🚨 El Dorado County has experienced a rising trend in fatal motorcycle crashes, with 3 deadly collisions reported in 2024 alone.
🛣️ Coloma Road is a rural stretch prone to head-on crashes due to its narrow lanes and blind curves, especially around the Rattlesnake Bar area.
⚠️ Studies show head-on collisions are responsible for nearly 10% of all traffic deaths but account for over 30% of rural road fatalities.
Sources: CHP, NHTSA, Caltrans, El Dorado County Traffic Reports
💼 Past Case Results
⚖️ $3.2 million settlement for a motorcyclist’s family after a fatal head-on crash caused by a truck crossing the centerline.⚖️ $2.8 million jury verdict in El Dorado County after a fatal collision involving disputed fault between a motorcycle and SUV.
⚖️ $4.1 million recovery secured in a rural California road crash after investigators proved a delivery truck drifted into oncoming traffic.
👨⚖️ Fighting For You
At the Scranton Law Firm, we know that rural motorcycle crashes often leave families with more questions than answers. Our attorneys have the experience and investigative resources to uncover the full truth and hold negligent drivers or companies accountable.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can the family still recover compensation if the motorcyclist was partly at fault?
Yes. Under California’s comparative negligence rules, partial fault does not eliminate the family’s right to recover compensation — it may just reduce the total award.
How long does the family have to file a wrongful death lawsuit?
Generally, the statute of limitations in California is two years from the date of death. Missing that window can eliminate your legal rights, so act quickly.
Is the road itself ever considered a factor in liability?
Yes. Dangerous road design or poor maintenance can support a claim against the city or county if it contributed significantly to the crash.
Do motorcycle wrongful death cases settle or go to court?
Many settle through negotiation, but high-value cases — especially those with disputed fault — may go to trial. Having the right law firm increases your chances either way.
What should the family do first after a fatal accident?
Secure legal counsel immediately. The faster an investigation starts, the better the chance of recovering black box data, dashcam footage, or eyewitness testimony that can make or break the case.
