If You Don’t Know, Now You Know: What Every Guardian Should Know About E-Bikes & E-Scooters

E-bikes and e-scooters are becoming increasingly popular with young people, but many adults are surprised to learn that these motorized devices are not the same as traditional bikes. National Electronic Surveillance System (NEISS) data from 2023 show e-bike injuries accounted for 49.8% of all pediatric traffic-related hospitalizations and e-bike use has only increased since then!

Know the Law

In New York, it is against the law for anyone under 16 years old to operate an e-bike or e-scooter.

E-bikes and e-scooters are motorized vehicles with the same responsibilities as driving a vehicle.

You must also check local laws for each municipality as every location has their own codes!

We have collected some of those resources at the Monroe County traffic safety page!

Safety Tips for Families

✅ Wear a helmet every ride.

✅ Be visible with lights and clothing.

✅ You need to follow traffic laws like any vehicle driver.

✅ Ride alert. Keep ears open to traffic and phones away.

✅ One rider per e-bike or e-scooter.

✅ Know the dangers with faster & heavier bikes. Bikes can easily be modified in a very unsafe way!

Start the Conversation and Understand E-Bikes

Find the Monroe County Traffic Safety conversation guide and bike class guide here for more details!

#IYDKNYK: Now you can say you know!

E-bikes and e-scooters can be a convenient and enjoyable way to travel, but they come with real risks and legal requirements. By understanding the law, setting expectations, and encouraging safe riding habits, parents can help ensure every trip ends safely and students return to school safely in the fall.

For more weekly tips on traffic safety topics throughout the summer, follow Monroe County Office of Traffic Safety and STOP-DWI with the links at Monroe County Office of Traffic Safety Social Media Pages!