Dover, DE (September 14, 2025) – A tragic accident on Friday afternoon, September 12, left a 14-year-old boy dead and a 16-year-old boy seriously injured following a collision between an electric bicycle and a school bus in Dover. The crash occurred at approximately 4 p.m. along West Lebanon Road near the intersection with Royal Grant Way.
According to Delaware State Police, the school bus was traveling eastbound on West Lebanon Road and entered the right-turn lane to prepare for a turn onto Royal Grant Way. At the same time, an electric bicycle carrying two juveniles was traveling eastbound on the adjacent sidewalk, which runs alongside the right-turn lane.
Authorities reported that the sidewalk contains a posted bicycle stop sign before the intersection. However, the e-bike proceeded through the crossing without stopping, striking the passenger side of the school bus as it began to make its turn.
The 14-year-old boy, believed to have been a passenger on the electric bicycle, was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The 16-year-old boy, who investigators believe was operating the e-bike, was also taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
Neither of the riders was wearing a helmet at the time of the incident. The bus driver, a 75-year-old man affiliated with the Caesar Rodney School District, was not hurt. Police confirmed that 21 elementary school-aged children were on board the bus at the time of the crash, but none sustained injuries.
The roadway remained closed for several hours during the initial investigation. Authorities have stated that the investigation into the circumstances of the crash remains ongoing.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the young victim and also hope for a full recovery for the injured boy.
E-Bike Accidents and Safety Concerns in Delaware
The increased popularity of electric bicycles has brought both convenience and new safety challenges to communities across Delaware and the nation. While e-bikes provide efficient transportation, they also pose elevated risks, particularly when operated near larger vehicles such as buses and commercial trucks. Unlike traditional bicycles, e-bikes can reach higher speeds, which can make collisions more severe.
Key factors that often contribute to e-bike accidents include failure to observe traffic control devices, limited visibility at intersections, distracted riding or driving, and a lack of protective equipment such as helmets. In this case, as in many others, the absence of helmets significantly increased the likelihood of catastrophic injury.
Common injuries from e-bike crashes range from fractures and abrasions to traumatic brain injuries and internal trauma. Safety experts emphasize the importance of wearing helmets, using designated bike lanes where available, and exercising caution when approaching intersections with motor vehicles.
The state of Delaware continues to promote traffic safety initiatives to protect cyclists and pedestrians. Educational campaigns focusing on both riders and drivers highlight the need for mutual awareness and adherence to traffic regulations. For riders, ensuring that e-bikes are properly maintained, brakes are functioning, and tires are adequately inflated can also play a vital role in preventing accidents.
In the aftermath of serious bicycle or e-bike accidents, families often face overwhelming medical expenses, emotional hardship, and complex legal matters. A skilled and brave bicycle accident attorney can provide essential guidance in navigating these challenges.
Legal representation is particularly important when another party may bear responsibility, such as a negligent driver or an institution operating a large vehicle. Victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost income, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle or e-bike collision in Delaware, seeking legal advice as soon as possible is recommended. Contact Murphy & Landon at 302-472-8100 today to arrange a free consultation and learn more about the legal options available to protect your rights.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Contact Murphy & Landon if you locate any inaccurate information. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.
