[10-05-2026] Merced County, CA – Horseback Rider Suffers Major Injuries in Collision With Van on Santa Fe Dr.

A 50-year-old Merced man suffered major injuries after the horse he was riding was struck by a vehicle in Merced County on Monday morning, October 5, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, officers responded at around 5:40 a.m. to Santa Fe Drive east of Fox Road.

CHP said a 55-year-old Winton man was driving a Nissan van eastbound on Santa Fe Drive at approximately 55 mph as the horseback rider attempted to cross the roadway. Investigators said darkness and insufficient lighting prevented the driver from seeing the horse and rider.

The collision ejected the rider from the horse. He suffered major injuries and was airlifted to Memorial Medical Center in Modesto. The van driver sustained moderate injuries. The horse died from injuries sustained in the collision.

CHP said drugs or alcohol did not appear to be factors in the crash.

The investigation remains ongoing.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.