This afternoon, at 2:05 pm, a Tesla was driving north on Hewes Street in the number one lane, according to the Orange Police Department.
A motorized scooter, occupied by two male teenagers, was traveling south on Hewes Street on the wrong side of the road.
The scooter then collided into the front passenger’s side of the Tesla at Hewes Street and Via Lardo Avenue.
The two juveniles, who were not wearing helmets, were transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
The driver of the Tesla remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation.
Drugs or alcohol do not appear to be a factor for the driver of the Tesla.
The Orange Police Department’s Traffic Unit responded and the investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information can contact Det. Rocha at 714-744-7342.
In California, driving a scooter on the wrong side of the road and causing an accident can lead to serious consequences. Here are the key points:
- Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road: Under California Vehicle Code Section 21651(b), driving on the wrong side of the road is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on whether anyone was injured or killed. Penalties can include up to 180 days in jail for a misdemeanor.
- Not Wearing a Helmet: California Vehicle Code Section 27803 requires all motorized scooter riders to wear a helmet34. Violating this law can result in a fine of around $197.
- Causing an Accident: If the scooter driver caused the accident, they could be held liable for damages to the Tesla and any injuries sustained. This could lead to civil penalties and increased insurance costs.
Combining these violations, the scooter driver could face significant legal and financial repercussions.
It’s so sad. How much more of this do we need to happen before we reign in e-bikes and scooters on public roadways operated by unlicensed children drivers. Imagine the trauma for the car driver too who now has to know that he was involved in a fatality accident for the rest of his life.
Why don’t we build more protected bike lanes? Why are teslas always speeding?