LAKE FOREST, CA — A motorcycle accident in Lake Forest involving a 14-year-old riding an electric motorcycle has now led to felony charges against the teen’s mother, authorities said.
Details of the Incident
The crash occurred on April 16 near El Toro High School, where the teen was allegedly performing wheelies in the roadway before striking an 81-year-old man, who suffered critical injuries.
Investigators say the victim was a substitute teacher at the time of the collision.
Authorities later identified the rider as a 14-year-old operating a high-powered electric motorcycle, not a street-legal e-bike.
Criminal Charges Filed
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office announced that the teen’s mother, Tommi Jo Mejer, 50, of Aliso Viejo, has been arrested and faces felony charges.
Prosecutors allege:
- The teen had been previously warned about unsafe and illegal riding behavior
- The mother was aware of the risks but allowed continued use of the electric motorcycle
Officials say the case is part of a broader effort to hold parents accountable when minors use high-speed, non-street-legal vehicles in public areas.
Legal Rights After a Motorcycle–Pedestrian Accident
This case highlights how liability can extend beyond the rider—especially when minors and illegal vehicles are involved.
Negligence & Duty of Care — Civil Code §1714
Operating any motorized vehicle recklessly—such as performing stunts in public roads—can establish clear liability for resulting injuries.
Parental Liability
Under California law, parents may be held financially responsible when:
- A minor causes injury
- The parent knew—or should have known—about dangerous behavior
- The parent allowed access to a hazardous or illegal vehicle
Illegal Vehicle Use
Electric motorcycles that are not street-legal increase liability exposure when used on public roads, particularly when operated by underage riders.
Pedestrian Right of Way
Pedestrians generally have the right of way, and drivers must exercise caution to avoid collisions—especially in areas near schools.
Right to Compensation
Victims may pursue compensation for:
- Emergency and long-term medical care
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of independence or quality of life
Right to a Full Investigation
Cases like this often involve:
- Witness testimony
- Prior warnings or complaints
- Vehicle classification and legality review
- Rider behavior evidence (e.g., stunts, speed)
Motorcyclist Attorney — Accountability in Serious Injury Cases
At Motorcyclist Attorney, we handle complex cases involving motorcycle and electric vehicle crashes—especially where liability extends beyond the rider.
Our team:
✅ Investigates reckless riding and illegal vehicle use
✅ Identifies parental and third-party liability
✅ Works with experts to document severe injury cases
✅ Fights for maximum compensation for victims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle-related accident, you may have important legal rights.
📞 Call Motorcyclist Attorney today for a free, confidential consultation.
The medical treatment you need. The money you deserve.
