Clayton, MI (July 6, 2026) – A 15-year-old boy died on Saturday morning after the electric bicycle he was riding was struck by a semi-truck in Dover Township, Lenawee County. The collision occurred at approximately 9:04 a.m. at the intersection of Medina Rd and Morey Hwy.
The teen was riding eastbound on Medina Rd when he ran a stop sign at Morey Hwy and was hit by a southbound semi. The driver of the semi, a 31-year-old man from Morenci, was not hurt.
The teen was taken to a hospital in Adrian, where he later died from his injuries. Drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors in the crash. The accident remains under investigation.
Our deepest condolences go out to the boy’s family and all those who knew him.
What Are the Risks Young Riders Face When E-Bikes Meet Highway Traffic?
Electric bicycles can reach speeds significantly higher than traditional pedal bikes, which changes the risk profile for riders sharing roads with larger vehicles. At higher speeds, the distance needed to stop increases, and the consequences of a collision become more severe. Younger riders in particular may underestimate how quickly they are moving, making it harder to stop in time for a sign or signal.
Intersections where local roads meet highways carry an elevated risk for cyclists and e-bike riders, who are far less visible to approaching drivers than other vehicles on the road. A semi-truck traveling at highway speed has a very limited ability to stop quickly when a smaller vehicle enters its path unexpectedly. The size and weight difference between a commercial truck and an e-bike means that any contact between the two is likely to result in catastrophic harm to the rider.
Stop signs at highway intersections exist precisely because the speed differential between through traffic and crossing vehicles creates a narrow margin for error. A rider who does not come to a complete stop before entering a highway risks entering the path of a vehicle that has no time to react. For e-bike riders, whose speeds can approach those of motor vehicles, treating every intersection as a full stop is one of the most important safety habits on any road.
