It isn’t uncommon nowadays to see fleets of young adolescents on electric bikes zooming through the streets. Whether it is on the way to school, malls and shopping centers, or other popular spots to hang out with friends, this modern mode of transportation’s popularity continues to skyrocket.
The high speed of electric bikes (with a Class three electric bike reaching up to 30 miles an hour on a flat road) attracts many children, pre-teens and young teenagers by giving those who cannot yet drive a quick way to get from point A to point B.
“[An electric bike] is basically like a mini motorcycle,” said seventh grader Reed Barton.
“It sort of gives you a sense of independence because you can go wherever you want.”
Although liberating, electric bikes have caused a stir in regards to their safety. In July of 2023, two teenagers were reported dead in San Diego County due to electric bike crashes within the short span of three days. As the electric bike industry continues to profit off of its popularity, the risk of potentially fatal accidents will only increase.
“We see kids getting into dangerous situations on e-bikes at least once a day,” says PVE Police Officer John Zabukovec. “Going from riding a bike with no motor to hopping on one that can go up to seventy miles per hour if modified is a really unsafe combination.”
It is vital for parents and their kids to be aware and educated of the responsibilities that come with riding an electric bike before purchasing one.
“Parents need to be educated on what the actual laws are, what is legal and what is illegal [when riding an electric bike],” Zabukovec said.
Although the state of California is still in the process of establishing rules and regulations for electric bike safety, the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department now requires motorized bicycles (for example, the popular Sur-Ron e-bike) that can reach up to thirty miles an hour to be registered at the DMV.
The simple awareness of the dangers of electric, motorized bicycles and the creation of regulations points to a hopeful future of a safer environment on the road.