Severe Head Injury Reported After Otay Mesa Border Crash
A severe head injury left a 23-year-old man hospitalized following a collision near the Otay Mesa border crossing in San Diego, according to the San Diego Police Department.
Officers responded around 2:37 p.m. Friday to the 2100 block of Britannia Boulevard, where the young man had been riding a moped alongside slower-moving traffic when the crash occurred.
What Happened
According to SDPD Officer Jose Perales, a 45-year-old woman driving a 2018 Cadillac XTS SUV was traveling northbound on Britannia Boulevard when she attempted to make a right-hand turn into a driveway.
As the SUV turned, the moped struck the passenger side of the vehicle, throwing the rider and causing serious head trauma. Emergency responders transported the victim to the hospital, where he remained under medical care as of Saturday.
Police confirmed that alcohol was not a factor in the collision. The department’s Traffic Division is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Legal Context: Head Injuries in Moped and Motorcycle Crashes
Crashes involving mopeds and motorcycles frequently result in traumatic brain injuries, even at relatively low speeds, due to the lack of physical protection for riders.
Under California law:
- California Vehicle Code §22107 requires drivers to ensure turns can be made safely and without interfering with other roadway users.
- California Civil Code §1714 establishes a duty of care, meaning drivers must operate their vehicles responsibly to avoid causing harm to others.
- Vehicle Code §21202 de California allows mopeds to operate on roadways but requires drivers to remain vigilant for vulnerable riders.
Compensation available for victims with serious head injuries
When a rider suffers a severe head injury, victims may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency and long-term medical treatment
- Neurological rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
Even when alcohol is not involved, failure to yield, unsafe turning maneuvers, or driver inattention can form the basis of a personal injury claim.
Learn More About Head Injury Risks
If you want to understand how head injuries occur and what legal rights victims have, we invite you to read our blog section on head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
How We Can Help
If you or a loved one has suffered a severe head injury like the victim in this Otay Mesa crash, you do not have to face recovery alone. At the Brain Injury Help Center, we provide compassionate legal guidance and strong advocacy for brain injury victims.
We offer:
- Free Consultations: Learn your rights at no cost.
- No-Win, No-Fee Guarantee: You only pay if we win your case.
- Comprehensive Support: From investigating the fault to helping secure proper medical care and maximum compensation, we’re with you every step of the way.
Medical Treatment You Need, Money You Deserve
Take the First Step Toward JusticeIf you or someone you love is recovering from a head injury caused by a traffic collision, contact the Brain Injury Help Center today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity and support.
