Teen riding e-bike is injured in crash with car outside Muirlands Middle School

To report a non-emergency crime, call the San Diego Police Department at (619) 531-2000 or (858) 484-3154.

La Jolla crime and public safety news

Sept. 5, 2023 12 PM PT

A teenager believed to be headed for Muirlands Middle School was injured in a crash with a car while riding an e-bike the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 5.

The boy, who had a complaint of pain, was taken to a hospital by his father.

For the record:

3:55 p.m. Sept. 12, 2023Though San Diego police originally reported that the rider of the e-bike was not taken to a hospital, he was taken to a hospital by his father. This article has been corrected to reflect that.

The 14-year-old was in a marked bike lane during school drop-off time, when there was a lot of vehicle traffic, police said.

The driver of the car was heading east on Nautilus Street and stopped to make a left turn northbound onto Via Valverde, according to police Capt. Erwin Manansala.

“The driver was waved through and proceeded to make a left turn … [and] did not see the cyclist as they were making the turn and the cyclist collided into the side of the vehicle,” Manansala said.

All parties involved remained on the scene, and San Diego Police Department motor officers responded to handle the investigation. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the crash.

“The San Diego Police Department would like to remind our communities that cyclists (whether on e-bikes or conventional bikes) should ride with care and be aware of their surroundings,” Manansala said. “Cyclists need to adhere to the rules of the road as outlined in the California Vehicle Code and local laws and regulations (i.e. ... adhering to traffic signals and stop signs).

“Additionally, we would like to remind motorists to drive safely and also be aware of their surroundings to include cyclists and pedestrians, especially in areas with reduced visibility, high traffic congestion ... and ... clearly marked bike lanes.”