Teen on E-Bike Seriously Injured in Crash Near Parrish Community High School in Manatee County

A serious crash in Manatee County, Florida left a 17-year-old on an electric bicycle airlifted to the hospital after being struck by an SUV near a school intersection, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The incident occurred during morning hours near Parrish Community High School and highlights the growing risks involving e-bikes and pedestrian crossings.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 7:10 a.m. on April 23, 2026, at the intersection of Erie Road and Fort Hamer Road.

Investigators say a 17-year-old from Palmetto was driving a Chevy SUV eastbound on Erie Road in a right-turn lane approaching the intersection.

At the same time, another 17-year-old was operating an electric bicycle and had stopped on the sidewalk at the southeast corner of the intersection. As the teen began crossing Fort Hamer Road within a marked crosswalk, the SUV turned right onto Fort Hamer Road.

Troopers report that the driver failed to yield to the pedestrian in the crosswalk, striking the teen and the e-bike.

The injured teen was airlifted to HCA Florida Blake Hospital with serious injuries.

Authorities have not released information regarding injuries to the SUV driver.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Dangers of E-Bike and Crosswalk Accidents

As electric bicycles become more common, crashes involving e-bike riders and vehicles are increasing across Florida.

Common risks include:

• Drivers failing to yield at intersections
• Limited visibility of smaller roadway users
• Confusion over right-of-way in crosswalks
• Speed differences between vehicles and e-bikes

Even at relatively low speeds, these collisions can result in severe injuries.

Right-of-Way Laws in Florida

Under Florida law, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians lawfully within marked crosswalks.

Failure to yield can lead to:

• Serious injury crashes
• Traffic citations or criminal charges
• Civil liability for resulting damages

Intersections near schools can be especially dangerous due to increased pedestrian activity.

Legal Considerations in Pedestrian and E-Bike Crashes

Crashes involving pedestrians or e-bike riders often involve clear right-of-way issues, but still require thorough investigation.

Key factors may include:

• Whether the driver yielded appropriately
• Visibility and traffic signal conditions
• Speed and attentiveness of the driver
• Actions of the pedestrian or cyclist

Liability is often determined based on who failed to follow traffic laws.

Compensation for Injury Victims

Victims of pedestrian or e-bike crashes may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency medical care and hospitalization
• Air transport and trauma care
• Rehabilitation and long-term treatment
• Pain and suffering

Serious injuries can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts—especially for young victims.

Rising Crash Trends in Florida

According to statewide data, Florida continues to see a high number of crashes and injuries each year, including a growing number involving pedestrians and cyclists.

Manatee County alone has recorded numerous crashes involving pedestrians, underscoring the need for increased awareness and safety measures.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash and determine all contributing factors.

Our Thoughts Are With the Injured Teen

Our thoughts are with the injured teen and their family during this difficult time.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent victims of pedestrian and bicycle accidents throughout Florida. If you or your child has been seriously injured in a crash, our firm can help investigate the case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

We offer free consultations and handle injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation for you.