Motorcycle rider struck by SUV turning left from southbound lane on 11th Street
January 18, 2026 | Huntington Beach, CA
A 21-year-old man from Pico Rivera lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Huntington Beach on Jan. 18. The incident took place when his northbound motorcycle collided with a southbound gray Land Rover LR3 attempting a left turn at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and 11th Street around 7:30 p.m.
Emilio Martin Espinosa, 21, of Pico Rivera, died after his motorcycle was struck by a Land Rover turning left at Pacific Coast Highway and 11th Street in Huntington Beach.
Authorities identified the victim as Emilio Martin Espinosa. Emergency responders rushed him to a local hospital, but he passed away from his injuries.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances, with no immediate decision on charges against the Land Rover driver.
What Happened in the Crash?
Key details from the incident include:
- Location: Pacific Coast Highway and 11th Street, Huntington Beach, California
- Time: Approximately 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 18
- Vehicles Involved: Northbound motorcycle and southbound gray Land Rover LR3
- Sequence of the Crash: The Land Rover driver made a left-hand turn, striking the oncoming motorcycle
- Outcome: Espinosa was transported to a hospital and later succumbed to injuries
- Investigation Status: Ongoing, with potential charges pending
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Motorcycle crashes often result from vehicles turning left across the path of oncoming riders, a scenario highlighted by safety experts. Distractions like phone use contribute significantly to these collisions.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), motorcyclists face heightened vulnerability without the enclosure of a car.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Total motorcyclist deaths in crashes |
6,335 |
IIHS, 2023 |
Percentage of all motor vehicle crash deaths |
15% |
IIHS, 2023 |
Common Cause: Left-Turn Collisions |
Leading factor in fatal motorcycle accidents |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Legal Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the need for thorough investigations in motorcycle accidents to safeguard victims' families.
“Motorcyclists are arguably the most vulnerable motorists on the road,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, riders face extreme risks in even low-speed collisions.”
In cases such as this, independent investigations by experienced professionals can protect rights and ensure accountability.
- Blind spots and inexperience: Often lead to failure in detecting motorcycles.
- Distracted driving: Phone use and other diversions play a major role.
- Advocacy role: Legal support helps families navigate grief while holding negligent parties responsible.
Pending results, Espinosa's family may pursue a wrongful death claim for losses including companionship and emotional distress.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).