ROWLAND HEIGHTS, Los Angeles County, Calif., Sept. 25, 2026 — A bicyclist was hurt Wednesday afternoon, September 23, in a collision with a vehicle on Desire Avenue in Rowland Heights, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash was reported to the California Highway Patrol shortly before 4 p.m. near 1962 Desire Ave. Detectives describe it as a vehicle versus bicyclist collision. Fire crews were sent to the scene at the same time as the report came in.
The extent of the bicyclist's injuries has not been released. It is not yet known whether the person was taken to a hospital. No other details about the vehicle or driver involved have been made public.
The California Highway Patrol has not said what led up to the crash. The incident remains under investigation.
We wish those injured a full recovery.
Bicycle Crash Data in California
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, bicycle fatalities decreased from 183 in 2022 to 145 in 2023. That drop suggests fewer cyclists are dying on California roads year over year, even as bike commuting and recreational riding remain common across the state.
Not every bicycle crash makes that count, since the figure tracks deaths, not injuries. Collisions between vehicles and cyclists happen far more usually than fatal ones, and most result in injuries ranging from minor to serious. Intersections, driveways, and stretches of road without dedicated bike lanes tend to see more of these crashes than roads built with separated cycling infrastructure.
Local crashes like the one reported on Desire Avenue this week are part of a broader pattern that state agencies track closely, using the data to guide decisions on where to add bike lanes, lower speed limits, or improve visibility at intersections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "dooring" and why is it dangerous?
Dooring happens when someone opens a parked car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, usually with little or no warning. Cyclists can be thrown from their bikes or into traffic, and the sudden obstacle leaves them almost no time to react.
How can cyclists stay safer in traffic?
Riding predictably, using lights and reflective gear, and staying visible at intersections all help. Many cyclists also find it safer to ride in designated bike lanes when available and to make eye contact with drivers before crossing paths.
What should a cyclist do after a crash with a car?
Call 911 if anyone is hurt, stay at the scene, and get checked by a medical provider even if injuries seem minor at first. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bruising, take time to show symptoms. It also helps to note the other vehicle's details and get contact information for any witnesses.
Do cyclists have the same road rights as drivers?
In California, cyclists generally have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, including the right to use most public roads and the duty to follow traffic signals and signs.
What to Do After a Bicycle Crash in Rowland Heights, CA
Anyone involved in a bicycle collision should seek medical attention promptly, even if they feel able to walk away from the scene. Adrenaline can mask pain from fractures, head injuries, or internal trauma that aren't obvious right away.
It helps to file a police report and request a copy once it's available, since it documents the basic facts of what happened. Taking photos of the scene, the bicycle, and any visible injuries can also be useful later. Residents in Rowland Heights who witness a bicycle crash are encouraged to remain nearby if it's safe to do so and share what they saw with responding officers.