CHOWCHILLA, Madera County, Calif., Nov. 7, 2026 — A motorcyclist died on Friday morning, November 6, in a collision with a semi truck on southbound State Route 99 at Avenue 24 1/2, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash was reported shortly after 10:13 a.m. near the Avenue 24 1/2 overcrossing south of Chowchilla. All southbound lanes were stopped in the immediate aftermath, and an ambulance was requested for injuries.
Chowchilla police and fire crews responded to assist, along with the Madera County Sheriff's Office. A tow operator was called to clear the scene, and Caltrans crews were dispatched to help manage the stacked traffic near the scales. The CHP also asked the regional traffic management center to activate a highway sign warning drivers of the collision ahead.
The highway was fully closed in the southbound direction for an extended period while crews worked the scene, authorities said. No cause has been released, and the circumstances of the collision between the motorcycle and the semi truck remain under investigation by the CHP.
Our sympathies are with the family of the person who lost their life.
More on Crashes in Chowchilla, CA
This fatal crash happened on State Route 99 in Chowchilla, CA. We cover crashes across Madera County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Madera County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can drivers spot motorcycles more easily on the highway?
Checking mirrors and blind spots an extra time before changing lanes or merging helps, since a motorcycle's narrow profile can be easy to miss, especially near on-ramps and overcrossings like the one involved in this crash.
What should a rider do immediately after a motorcycle crash?
If possible, move to a safe location off the travel lanes, call 911, and avoid removing protective gear before medical help arrives, since doing so can worsen some injuries.
Do motorcycle crashes happen more frequently at intersections and interchanges?
Yes, intersections and interchange areas see a meaningful share of motorcycle collisions because of merging traffic, turning vehicles, and reduced visibility compared to open stretches of roadway.
Does the road surface affect motorcycle safety?
Yes. Loose gravel, uneven pavement, and debris affect motorcycles more than cars because a bike has less contact area with the road, which can affect traction and stability.
