Southern California(Thechieftainspear) – As electric scooters and e-bikes become increasingly popular among children and teenagers in Southern California, a growing number of accidents—some severe or fatal—are raising alarms among officials and local communities.
A study published in JAMA Network highlights a dramatic rise in injuries linked to these vehicles. E-bike-related incidents surged from 751 in 2017 to 23,493 in 2022, while e-scooter injuries climbed 45% during the same period, jumping from 8,566 to 56,847 cases.
One recent incident occurred on March 29, when 11-year-old Emiliano Flores was seriously injured after his electric scooter collided with a sedan. The crash took place near Elliot Way and Caliente Road, leaving the boy with multiple broken bones. Witnesses described hearing his cries for help, while his scooter was found trapped beneath the car’s shattered windshield.
Also Read – Person Fatally Shot in Quiet Southern California Neighborhood
Despite occurring in a residential neighborhood, visibility and safety remain key concerns. Nearby residents say speeding is common in the area, making it difficult for drivers to spot riders.
Just days later, on April 1, two teenagers were critically injured in Orange after riding a scooter against traffic and colliding with a vehicle.
“This is an issue we’re seeing more frequently, not just in our city but throughout Southern California,” said Lt. Phil McMullin of the Orange Police Department. He noted a rise in complaints regarding reckless riding and urged both parents and young riders to educate themselves on traffic laws and safety measures.
“It’s important to know the rules before purchasing or riding these vehicles,” McMullin added. “Some e-bikes aren’t street-legal, and riding them in prohibited areas can increase the risk of accidents.”
Authorities emphasize the importance of wearing helmets, following road regulations, and avoiding distractions like cell phones while riding. For additional safety guidelines, residents can refer to resources provided by local transportation agencies in Orange and Los Angeles counties.
- ‘Cruel Practice’: Calls Grow to Relocate Elephants from L.A. Zoo - April 23, 2025
- $4M in Stolen Cargo Recovered from South American Theft Crew in L.A. - April 23, 2025
- Impaired Driver Strikes and Kills Pedestrian in Torrance Hit-and-Run - April 21, 2025
