A 66-year-old man was critically injured Wednesday morning after his e-bike was struck by a vehicle in Salina, Kansas.
According to the Salina Police Department, officers were called around 4:50 a.m. after receiving a report that a cyclist had been hit by a car in the 2000 block of Centennial Road. The crash happened just south of I-135.
When emergency responders arrived, they found the e-bike rider badly injured. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Police Say Both Were Traveling South
Investigators said the man was riding south on Centennial Road when he was struck by a vehicle that was also traveling south.
Police have not released the name of the injured cyclist. Officials described his injuries as critical.
The circumstances leading up to the crash remain under investigation. Authorities have not said whether visibility, speed, road conditions, or other factors may have contributed.
Driver Cooperated With Police
Sgt. Matt Gawith with Salina police said the driver involved in the collision remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
Police said no arrests had been made as of the latest update.
Investigators are expected to continue reviewing evidence, speaking with witnesses, and determining exactly how the crash occurred.
Early Morning Conditions Under Review
Because the crash happened before sunrise, investigators may examine lighting and visibility in the area at the time of the collision.
E-bike crashes can be especially serious because riders have far less protection than people inside vehicles. Even when helmets or lights are used, a collision with a car can lead to severe injuries.
Police have not said whether the cyclist had lights or reflective gear on the e-bike.
Public Asked To Help Investigation
The Salina Police Department is asking anyone who saw the cyclist on Centennial Road before the crash to come forward.
Police are also asking people who were in the area around 4:50 a.m. Wednesday to contact investigators if they saw anything that could help explain what happened.
Witness information can be important in traffic investigations, especially when a collision happens in low-light conditions or when few people are nearby.
E-Bike Safety Concerns Grow
E-bikes have become more common in many communities, offering a convenient way to travel without relying on a car. However, their growing use has also raised safety concerns, particularly when riders share roads with larger vehicles.
Drivers are urged to watch carefully for cyclists, especially during early morning and evening hours. Riders are also encouraged to use lights, reflective clothing, helmets, and predictable road positioning to reduce risk.
A 66-year-old e-bike rider was critically injured after being struck by a vehicle on Centennial Road in Salina, Kansas, early Wednesday morning. Police said the driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators, and no arrests have been announced.
The crash remains under investigation, and anyone who saw the cyclist or was in the area at the time is asked to contact the Salina Police Department.