Santa Cruz County, CA—On the afternoon of Saturday, April 5, 2025, a collision resulted in the death of a 19-year-old Milpitas motorcyclist and injured a Mini Cooper driver, according to KRON.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident took place around 12:52 p.m. at the intersection of southbound Highway 1 and Laguna Road.

Investigators say a yellow 2005 Suzuki motorcycle collided with the rear of a red 2011 Mini Cooper. The motorcyclist was thrown from the bike and suffered major injuries. Emergency personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.

The 24-year-old woman driving the Mini Cooper was transported to Dominican Hospital with minor injuries. Authorities also reported that another person sustained a head injury, but further details were not immediately available.

Both directions of Highway 1 were closed for several hours during the investigation and cleanup, with traffic restrictions remaining in place until at least 4:00 p.m. 

The CHP has not determined whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local CHP dispatch.

Wrongful Death Claims & Comparative Negligence

Determining fault in a collision can involve multiple factors, and under California’s Comparative Negligence rule, several parties can share partial responsibility.  Should someone else be found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.

California Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.