It is nothing short of a miracle that Anthony McBride Jr., 17, is able to wave at his father from his hospital bed at Broward Health Medical Center.
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McBride Jr. was struck by two cars as he crossed Andrews Avenue on an electric bike in early August. He went into a deep coma, and doctors weren’t sure if he would wake up.
“It’s been a nightmare. I’ve been at the hospital with him nearly every day. It’s been emotional,” said his father, Anthony McBride Sr.
Since early August, at least three other minors have been struck by cars on electric bikes or scooters in South Florida.
A boy, 10, and his sister were hit in northwest Miami-Dade last week, and the girl sadly died.
According to Broward Health Medical Center, three pediatric trauma patients with e-bike injuries came into the ER Wednesday afternoon, in less than one hour. In many crashes, riders aren’t wearing helmets.
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“They’re a significant problem out there on the road; it’s just another motor vehicle on the road, and they need to be legislated and paid attention to,” said Dr. Ralph Guarneri, a general trauma surgeon.
Florida lawmakers voted to pass a law regulating electric bikes earlier this year. Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed it in June.
Since then, cities like Pinecrest and Sunny Isles have passed laws regulating the use of electric bikes and scooters. Fort Lauderdale is currently drafting one of its own.
“Six weeks ago we didn’t know if he would make it, and every day we’ve seen positive change,” McBride Sr. said.
McBride Jr. is expected to need intensive rehabilitation for a chance at a full recovery. If you would like to help his family financially, click here.
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