Riverside, California — An e-scooter accident in Riverside left two 14-year-old boys critically injured after a Lexus struck them as they attempted to cross a busy intersection Tuesday evening, according to Riverside police. One teen was riding an electric scooter, while the other was operating an electric motorcycle.
The collision happened at about 7:46 p.m. on August 25, 2026, at Arlington Avenue and Mitchell Avenue. Police said the teenagers were traveling south on Mitchell Avenue and attempting to cross Arlington when they were hit by a silver Lexus traveling west.
Both boys were rushed to a local hospital with major injuries and were reported to be in critical condition. The Lexus driver, identified only as an 88-year-old Riverside man, was not injured. He remained at the scene and was interviewed by investigators. No arrest was immediately announced.
What Riverside Police Have Reported
Preliminary information about the crash includes:
- Both injured riders were 14 years old
- One teen was riding an e-scooter, and the other an e-motorcycle
- They were traveling south on Mitchell Avenue
- A westbound Lexus struck them near Arlington Avenue
- Both teenagers suffered major injuries and were hospitalized
- The Lexus driver remained at the scene
- Police had not determined whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the collision
- The cause and responsibility remain under investigation
Anyone with information about the crash can contact Riverside Police Major Accident Investigation Team Detective Matt Parrish at 951-353-7177.
California Law for Motorized Scooter Riders Under 18
California Vehicle Code § 21235 establishes several rules for motorized scooters. Among them, an operator under 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet, and anyone operating a motorized scooter must have a valid driver’s license or instruction permit. The law also generally limits where scooters may be operated on higher-speed roadways.
These requirements may become relevant when investigators review an e-scooter accident in Riverside, but a rider’s violation does not automatically establish who caused the collision. Police must still examine traffic controls, right-of-way, visibility, vehicle movements, and the actions of everyone involved.
Authorities have not publicly stated whether helmet use contributed to the injuries in this crash.
What Evidence Should Families Preserve After an E-Scooter Crash?
Because both injured riders are minors, their parents or guardians may need to handle insurance communications and other claim-related matters on their behalf.
Important evidence to preserve may include:
- The complete Riverside Police collision report
- The damaged e-scooter and e-motorcycle
- Photos and videos of both vehicles and the intersection
- Medical records, bills, and treatment documentation
- Witness names and contact information
- Nearby surveillance or dashcam footage
- The Lexus driver’s insurance information
- Purchase, maintenance, or modification records for the electric devices
- Helmets and other protective equipment were used during the crash
The Riverside Police Department states that traffic collision reports are generally available to involved parties, registered vehicle owners, or authorized representatives approximately 10 working days after an incident, although some reports may take longer depending on the investigation.
Preserving electrical devices before they are repaired or discarded may also help investigators determine their condition and specifications, and whether any mechanical issue played a role.
How The Motorcyclist Attorney Can Help
The Motorcyclist Attorney can investigate an e-scooter or electric motorcycle collision, preserve physical and digital evidence, review available insurance coverage, and help families understand potential California injury claims.
We offer free consultations and representation focused on California riders and their families. Every claim depends on its specific facts and evidence, and no result can be guaranteed.
Call 844-284-9437 to speak with a California motorcycle accident attorney.
