Frightening Crash on Highway 18 Injures Child

7-Year-Old Boy Critically Injured After Vehicle Hits Scooter in Apple Valley

Apple Valley, CA (August 8, 2026) — A 7-year-old boy suffered critical injuries Thursday evening after a frightening crash on Highway 18 when a vehicle struck him while he was riding a scooter.

The crash happened around 8:18 p.m. Aug. 6 in the 21000 block of Outer Highway 18. Investigators said the boy was riding southeast in the roadway while under the supervision of his father, 29-year-old Juan Mendoza.

Emergency crews treated the child at the scene before taking him to a local hospital. Medical personnel later airlifted him to a trauma center, where he remained in critical condition.

Deputies determined Mendoza was allegedly under the influence of drugs while supervising his son. Authorities arrested him and booked him into the High Desert Detention Center on suspicion of child cruelty causing great bodily injury or death.

The driver involved in the crash stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The investigation remains ongoing.

Stop Pedestrian Accidents

To help prevent pedestrian accidents, drivers and pedestrians alike should be increasingly vigilant and watch out for each other. Drivers have to make sure to slow down in crowded areas, watch for people crossing, and not get distracted, like by texting.

Pedestrians should cross only where they are supposed to, heed the traffic lights, and attempt to establish eye contact with drivers before they step off the curb. If you’re walking at night, wear something bright or reflective, so you’re easier to see. Do not walk and use a phone, or wear headphones, on the road.

Drivers should stay alert around children, especially those riding scooters or bicycles. Parents and guardians should also ensure children stay out of traffic and remain in safe areas while riding.

Let Sweet Lawyers Help You Navigate Personal Injury Cases

Traffic accidents can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car, truck, or bicycle accident caused by someone else, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Sweet Lawyers is here to guide you every step of the way.

Our experienced attorneys help you gather critical evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong case on your behalf. We also understand how insurance companies operate and will fight to secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Sweet Lawyers handles all paperwork, communicates with insurance adjusters, and navigates the legal system so you can focus on healing. With personalized support and aggressive representation, we work tirelessly to help you recover and hold negligent parties accountable.

If you’ve been injured in a traffic accident, speak with Sweet Lawyers today. Call (800) 674-7852 or visit our website to learn more about filing a personal injury claim.