14-year-old recovering after e-bike crash with vehicle on first day of school

Date Added: August 11, 2025 5:22 pm

A 14-year-old boy is recovering after he was struck by a vehicle while riding his e-bike on the first day of school Monday morning in Deltona.

Deputies responded to the crash at Howland Boulevard and Roble Lane around 9 a.m. The 14-year-old had been riding his bike to a private school, traveling east along Howland Boulevard on the sidewalk, when he approached Roble Lane. As the victim crossed Roble Lane in the crosswalk, the driver of a Kia Soul entered the crosswalk at a low speed attempting to turn onto Howland Boulevard. The vehicle struck the victim, dragged him about 15 feet, and stopped with the victim trapped under the vehicle. 

Witnesses, including a passing tow truck driver, stopped to help, and were able to lift the vehicle and move the victim to safety. 

The victim was wearing a helmet. Although injured, he was still conscious on scene. Air One transported him as a trauma alert to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, where at last check he was in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.

We're thankful for his recovery, and the Deltona Traffic Unit is completing a full crash investigation. 

In the meantime, we want to emphasize safe operation and awareness of e-bikes as they've become increasingly popular on our roads and sidewalks, and their increased speeds can reduce reaction time to avoid crashes.

For riders:
 
-Wear a helmet! Helmets can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries.
 
-Parents, talk with your kids about the rules of the road. (Use hand signals and follow traffic rules.)
 
-Discuss safe riding habits with your child. (Avoid using phones or earbuds while riding an e-bike and keep both hands on the handlebars.)
 
-Education is key. Since many e-bike riders are under 18, encourage supervised riding and seek formal training if possible.

Drivers:
 
-Don’t drive distracted (always stay focused on the road).

-Use special caution in school zones, residential areas and around intersections.

-Understand e-bikes can travel faster than traditional bicycles. That’s why it’s crucial to be extra vigilant.