Temecula Boy, 13, Struck Riding Bike To School: CHP

TEMECULA, CA — The driver of a white Kia SUV collided with a Temecula boy as he rode his bicycle to school early Thursday, California Highway Patrol officers told Patch.

The 13-year-old boy possibly injured his wrists in the crash and the CHP is still looking for the woman who struck him, according to Officer Mike Lassig.

The boy left his home just before 8 a.m., riding his bicycle on a sidewalk down San Remo Drive, Lassig said. He was riding against traffic, rather than with it.

At the same time, the driver of a Kia SUV—a woman in her mid-60s—was headed south on Isidora Lane at a stop sign. Then, she turned right onto San Remo Drive.

That's when the two collided, according to Lassig.

"The driver stopped, gave the boy a name and phone number, then drove away," Lassig told Patch.

He went the short distance home and told his parents what happened, complaining of "lower arm pain," Lassig said.

The boy's parents took him for medical care, and his dad called 911 to report the incident.

"If anyone witnessed the crash or knows the driver of the white Kia SUV, please contact the CHP Temecula Office," Lassig said.

BICYCLE SAFETY REMINDERS:

• Bicyclists are required to drive with traffic, according to state law. Luckily, the boy was wearing his helmet, or the result of the crash could have been much worse, Lassig said.
• Bicycle riders must ride with traffic, not against it.
• Parents should ensure their children understand the rules of the road before letting them go off on their own.
• Children under 18 years of age are required by law to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle, scooter, or skateboard or while rollerskating.