**Serious Collision Leaves Two Teens Injured in Riverside, California**
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On the evening of Tuesday, 25 August, a serious traffic incident in Riverside, California, left two 14-year-old boys critically injured after being struck by a car while riding an e-scooter and an e-motorcycle. The collision occurred at the intersection of Arlington Avenue and Mitchell Avenue around 7:46 p.m.
The boys were riding their electric vehicles when they were hit by an 88-year-old driver behind the wheel of a silver Lexus. The impact caused significant injuries, and both teenagers were promptly transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Their conditions have been described as serious.
Authorities from the Riverside Police Department responded to the crash scene shortly after the report came in. Upon arrival, they confirmed that the two juvenile riders had been involved in a collision while using their electric bikes. The boys were reportedly travelling southbound when the collision occurred.
In the aftermath, Sergeant Tim Jensen from the Riverside Police Traffic Bureau stated that traffic accidents involving vehicles and cyclists tend to result in serious injuries. He advised individuals using roads, be they in vehicles or on bicycles, to adhere to traffic regulations, remain vigilant, and exercise caution, particularly at intersections. “Taking a few extra seconds to ensure safe travel can help prevent a devastating collision,” Jensen said in a public statement.
Currently, the Riverside Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is examining the circumstances surrounding the accident. Investigators are working to determine the exact causal factors of the collision, although as of now, there has been no indication that drugs or alcohol played a role.
Community members in the vicinity of the collision reported hearing a loud bang at the time of the accident, and several witnesses claimed to have seen the incident unfold. However, neither the identities of the teenagers nor the elderly driver have been disclosed to the public at this time.
The rising popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters in Riverside has sparked significant concern within the local community, with authorities noting an increase in related traffic incidents. Steven Espinosa, a spokesperson for the Riverside Police Department, commented that there has been a noticeable uptick in calls related to e-bike groups. “It’s a huge concern for the people of Riverside,” he told local media.
With the investigation still ongoing, police are encouraging anyone who may have additional information regarding the incident to come forward. They have advised that those with relevant details can reach Detective Matt Parrish of the Riverside Police Traffic Division at (951) 353-7177 or via email at MWParrish@RiversideCA.gov.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant as the city continues to navigate the challenges posed by the increasing number of e-bikes on the roads. Safety advocates are calling for more measures to ensure that both cyclists and drivers understand the rules of the road, thereby reducing the likelihood of future accidents.
As the situation develops, Riverside officials are determined to foster a safer environment on the streets and intersections for all users, particularly the younger population navigating their journeys on electric two-wheelers.
The Riverside Police Department assures the community that they are committed to a thorough investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding this critical incident.