Taft, CA (September 4, 2026) – A man riding an electric bicycle died on Wednesday morning after his bike and a bucket truck came into contact at Kern and Tenth streets.
The accident happened around 10:47 a.m. on September 2. The police said the bucket truck was traveling east on Kern St and had stopped at a red light at Tenth St.
At the same time, the bicyclist was traveling east on the south sidewalk of Kern St toward Tenth St. The truck began turning right onto Tenth St when it struck the bicycle, ejecting the rider.
The bicyclist died at the scene. Detectives said alcohol or drugs do not appear to have contributed to the wreck. No identities were released. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under review as investigators work to establish the full sequence of events.
Our thoughts are with the rider’s loved ones during this difficult time.
What Can Cause Bicycle and Truck Accidents at Intersections?
Bicycle and truck accidents at intersections can happen because larger vehicles have significant blind spots, especially during turns. A truck driver may have difficulty seeing a cyclist traveling beside or near the vehicle. Bicycles also have less protection than larger vehicles, so a person riding one can face serious harm during a roadway collision.
Right-turn movements can create added risks when a bicycle and truck travel in the same direction. Cyclists using sidewalks or crossing paths may also unexpectedly enter a truck driver’s path. Traffic signals, lane markings, visibility, vehicle speed, and road design can affect how safely each person moves through an intersection. Proper signaling, careful turns, and awareness of nearby cyclists can help reduce these risks.
