E-Bike Safety for Kids:
A Guide for Parents

Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, have surged in popularity among all ages in the last few years, offering a fun, eco-friendly way to get around—and they have become especially popular with kids.  As the streets and neighborhoods of Los Angeles County become increasingly filled with these zippy vehicles, it’s essential for parents to understand the hazards that e-bikes present.

E-bikes blend the convenience of a regular bicycle with the speed and power of an electric motor. The rapid acceleration, higher speeds, and quiet operation of e-bikes also mean a greater risk of crashes, especially for inexperienced riders. According to data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and local hospital systems:

• Between 2021 and 2024, there was a 67% increase in e-bike-related injuries among children and adolescents. Common injuries included fractures (especially of the wrist, arm, and collarbone), head trauma, abrasions, and, in rarer cases, internal injuries requiring surgery.
• In 2023 alone, over 425 youth (ages 10-17) were treated for e-bike crashes in local hospitals. The majority of these incidents involved collisions with vehicles, falls due to excessive speed, and accidents resulting from improper use of e-bike features.
• Helmet use remains distressingly low. County surveys indicate that fewer than 35% of children involved in e-bike accidents were wearing helmets at the time of their injury.

Understanding the Risks: Why E-Bikes Can Be Dangerous for Kids

E-bikes may seem the same as riding a pedal-powered bike, but they create unique hazards for young riders:

• Speed and Power: Many e-bikes can reach speeds of 20 mph or more, far faster than most children can safely handle. The sudden acceleration can catch riders off guard, making it harder to stop quickly or react to obstacles.
• Weight and Handling: E-bikes are often heavier than traditional bicycles. This affects maneuverability and stopping distance, which can be especially challenging for smaller and younger riders.
• Distraction and Overconfidence: The novelty and excitement of e-biking can distract kids from paying attention to traffic, road hazards, and pedestrians.
• Traffic Exposure: E-bikes are frequently used on roads with cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Young riders may not have the experience or judgment necessary to navigate complex traffic environments safely.
• Legal Restrictions: In California, riders under 16 are prohibited from operating certain classes of e-bikes. However, enforcement and awareness of these laws are inconsistent.

E-Bike Safety Tips for Kids

To support safe e-bike riding, parents should take a proactive approach:

1. Know and Follow the Law – California classifies e-bikes into three categories:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph, no throttle.
• Class 2: Throttle-assisted, up to 20 mph.
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph, must be at least 16 years old to ride.

Make sure your children’s e-bikes are legal for their age group and that they understand where riding is permitted.

2. Insist on Helmet Use and Protective Gear – Helmet use is the single most effective way to prevent head injuries. Look for helmets that are certified for bicycle use, and ensure a snug, proper fit. Consider additional safety gear such as knee and elbow pads, especially for younger or less experienced riders.

3. Teach Safe Riding Habits. Be sure to:

• Encourage your child to ride defensively, always expecting the unexpected from drivers and pedestrians.
• Remind them to obey all traffic signs, signals, and road rules—e-bikes are subject to the same regulations as traditional bicycles.
• Discourage distracting behaviors such as riding with headphones, using phones, or carrying passengers.
• Practice braking, turning, and handling in a safe, open area before allowing rides near traffic.

4. Supervise and Set Boundaries – Set clear geographic and behavioral limits for where and how your child can ride. Insist that younger riders stay on bike paths or residential streets, and avoid high-traffic roads. Also: the streets are no place for “wheelies” where young riders drive on the back wheel only.

Remember: Safety starts at home. As e-bikes become common on our streets, the responsibility to teach safe riding habits falls on parents and guardians. By understanding the risks, promoting protective gear, and having open conversations about safety, families can enjoy the benefits of e-biking with confidence. If by chance your child does get injured, our sports medicine experts are dedicated to helping your child heal and return to their normal activities.

Schedule an appointment with on of our sports medicine experts today!