Albany, Ore. – A 13-year-old bicyclist is in stable condition after being struck by a pickup truck early Friday morning, with police stating that the teen’s helmet likely played a crucial role in saving his life.
At approximately 7:10 a.m. on April 18, officers from the Albany Police Department responded to a reported collision at the intersection of 29th Avenue and Pacific Boulevard. Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found the teenager trapped underneath the truck, prompting the use of the Jaws of Life to free him.
The injured cyclist, who was operating an electric bike, was rushed to the hospital, where he is now reported to be in stable condition. Police indicated that the teenager was wearing a full-face helmet at the time of the crash, a safety measure they believe significantly reduced the risk of serious head injuries.
The driver of the pickup truck remained on the scene and fully cooperated with the investigation. According to officers, their initial findings suggest that the young rider failed to obey a traffic signal as he crossed the intersection, leading to the collision.
While the investigation is ongoing, authorities were quick to thank the Oregon Department of Transportation for assisting with traffic control during the extraction process. Police emphasized the importance of wearing protective gear, particularly when operating electric bikes or other similar vehicles, noting that the helmet likely prevented a much more severe outcome.
As of now, no charges have been filed, and the driver’s role in the incident is still under review. The Albany Police Department has urged the public to remain vigilant about road safety, especially when navigating high-traffic areas and busy intersections.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of electric bikes and the critical role helmets play in protecting riders from serious injury or death. The teenager’s condition is expected to improve with time, and his recovery will be closely monitored by medical professionals.
