Santa Ana, CA (August 5, 2025) – A 13-year-old boy riding a bicycle was injured in a traffic collision Tuesday afternoon involving a white vehicle near the southbound on-ramp from Culver Dr to Interstate 405. The crash occurred at approximately 5:23 p.m. in the Santa Ana area, prompting an emergency response from local paramedics and California Highway Patrol officers.
CHP dispatch logs confirm the collision occurred in the left lane of the on-ramp as the young cyclist entered or crossed into the roadway. Emergency medical personnel were notified and arrived quickly to provide care. The teen’s condition has not yet been publicly released, but the collision was classified as a 1179—indicating that medical transport was necessary.
The driver of the white vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with authorities. The incident also drew support from Freeway Service Patrol (FSP), which assisted in clearing the scene shortly after the collision. No additional vehicles were reported to be involved.
Traffic in the area was briefly impacted as responders worked in the active lanes near the on-ramp. The investigation is ongoing to determine how the teen came to be in the path of traffic and whether any violations contributed to the incident.
We extend our thoughts to the injured cyclist and hope for a full and swift recovery.
Bicycle Collisions Involving Youth in California
The crash involving a young cyclist near the I-405 on-ramp in Santa Ana reflects a growing concern about the safety of teens navigating roads and freeway-adjacent infrastructure by bike. While bicycles offer independence and mobility for many youths, proximity to high-speed routes like Interstate 405 drastically increases risk—especially when protective barriers, bike lanes, or adequate signage are lacking.
California sees hundreds of collisions each year involving child and teen cyclists, many of which occur during peak travel times. In suburban and urban freeway corridors, these risks intensify. The on-ramp at Culver Dr is a particularly busy connector with complex merging traffic, making it especially hazardous for any cyclist who ends up in its path.
This incident also highlights the importance of community education around safe routes for young riders, especially during after-school hours when teen bicycle use often peaks. Parents, schools, and local agencies can play a crucial role in promoting route planning, helmet use, and awareness of traffic laws for young cyclists.
When a child is injured in a vehicle collision, families may face not only physical and emotional trauma but also significant medical and financial burdens. Understanding liability and accessing support services quickly can be key to ensuring a stable path forward.
At Local Accident Reports, we help families affected by serious bicycle collisions navigate the aftermath with clarity and support. If your child has been injured in a traffic incident, you deserve trusted guidance and access to all available resources. Contact us today to explore your options and begin the path to recovery with the help you need.
