The Orange Police Department is investigating a tragic collision that resulted in critical injuries to a 19-year-old man after a vehicle struck his electric bicycle on September 9, 2025, at approximately 8:43 pm.
The collision occurred near the intersection of Lewis Street and El Prado Avenue.
The e-bike rider, who was not wearing a helmet, was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Drugs or alcohol do not appear to be a factor.
Lewis Street was closed in both directions from Lampson Avenue to El Rancho Avenue for approximately six hours while members of the Orange Police Department Traffic Unit were working to determine the cause of the collision.
Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Rocha at 714-744-7342.
In the tragic e-bike collision in Orange, CA on September 9, 2025, the driver who struck the 19-year-old rider is reportedly cooperating with investigators, and drugs or alcohol do not appear to be factors. Based on current California law, whether the driver faces penalties depends on several factors, primarily fault and negligence.
Here’s how it breaks down:
1. If the Driver Is Not at Fault
- No criminal penalties are typically imposed if the driver followed all traffic laws and acted reasonably.
- The fact that the e-bike rider was not wearing a helmet (required for riders under 18, but recommended for all ages) and may have been riding unsafely could shift liability away from the driver.
- California follows a comparative fault system, meaning both parties can share responsibility. If the cyclist is found partially or fully at fault, the driver may not face legal consequences.
2. If the Driver Is Found Negligent
- Penalties could include citations, civil liability, or even criminal charges depending on the severity and nature of the negligence (e.g., distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield).
- Even if not criminally charged, the driver could be sued for damages in civil court if found partially responsible.
3. Civil vs. Criminal Liability
- Criminal charges are rare unless there’s clear evidence of reckless or impaired driving.
- Civil lawsuits are more common, especially if the injured party (or their family) seeks compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, or lost wages.
Summary
If the investigation confirms the driver was not negligent and followed traffic laws, they likely won’t face criminal penalties. However, civil liability could still be a possibility depending on the outcome of the investigation and any claims filed by the injured party.