E-Bike and E-Scooter Injuries Are Rising Fast—Here’s What Parents Need to Know

Chalk illustration of an electronic bike on pavement. E-bike injuries are rising fast

This article was originally published in July 2025 and updated on August 11, 2025, to remove outdated timeframe references. It was updated again on August 18, 2026, to include references to electric scooters.

Over the past few years, electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters) have exploded in popularity among kids and teens. But with that rise has come a sharp increase in serious injuries—and it’s putting children in the hospital at an alarming rate.

The American College of Surgeons’ Committee on Trauma recently issued a national statement on e-bikes, recognizing the growing threat they pose to children and calling for a coordinated public health response.

So, what’s changed?
 

E-bikes are easier to get—and faster than you think

Not long ago, e-bikes were expensive and mostly used by adults. But now, with prices dropping and more models on the market, kids and teens are hopping on—often without fully understanding the risks.

Many e-bikes today resemble small motorcycles and can reach speeds of 20 mph or more. Some can even go faster if modified, blurring the line between a bicycle and a motor vehicle.
 

Young riders, big risks

Adolescents are still developing the ability to assess danger and make safe decisions—especially when it comes to speed and traffic. Younger kids face an even greater challenge because their cognitive and motor skills are still maturing.

The human brain doesn’t fully develop until around age 25, and the parts responsible for impulse control and risk assessment are among the last to mature. That makes high-speed riding particularly dangerous for children and teens.


 

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Currently, state law requires all e-bike riders to wear helmets, regardless of age—which is a good start. But the typical bike helmet may not be enough... It’s important to remember: Head injuries are the most common reason children end up in the ER after an e-bike crash.

Kevin Borrup, Director,
Connecticut Children's Injury Prevention Center

Are the current laws enough?

In Connecticut, riders must be at least 16 years old to legally operate a motorcycle or a Class 3 e-bike. But with more injuries happening among younger kids, many are asking: Should we raise the minimum age for all e-bike use?

Currently, state law also requires all e-bike riders to wear helmets, regardless of age—which is a good start. But the typical bike helmet may not be enough. Given the speeds e-bikes can reach, a motorcycle-rated helmet (which provides added neck and skull protection) may offer better safety.

It’s important to remember: Head injuries are the most common reason children end up in the ER after an e-bike crash.

Safe riding starts with knowing the rules

Here’s what parents and kids need to know about riding e-bikes in Connecticut:

  • Speed limits matter: Class 1 and Class 2 (the ones with a throttle) e-bikes are capped at 20 mph. Class 3 models can go up to 28 mph—but only if they’re not throttle-powered. Do not tamper with the speed limiter.
  • Check wattage before purchasing: If it has an engine with 750 watts or more, it is not an e-bike and, at a minimum, requires a valid driver's license to ride.
  • No passengers unless built for two: Most e-bikes aren’t designed for a second rider.
  • Stay off the sidewalk: Unless otherwise posted, e-bikes are considered vehicles. They belong on the road, in the right lane.
  • Be courteous and cautious: If riding on sidewalks or shared paths, yield to pedestrians.

E-scooters

An electric scooter (e-scooter) closely resembles a traditional kick scooter but is powered by an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. Unlike traditional kick scooters, electric scooters can easily reach speeds of 15 to 25 miles per hour with little physical effort. These higher speeds mean a significantly higher impact during a crash, which leads to greater injury. Small wheels can easily catch on uneven pavement, leading to loss of control. Head and facial trauma, complex fractures, and severe road rash often result. 

To keep your child safe, make sure they are old enough to ride responsibly and can control the device. As with e-bikes, be sure your child wears a helmet. In addition, riders should also wear elbow pads, knee pads and wrist guards, as they protect the areas commonly injured in a fall.

What other communities are doing

Some cities are already taking action. In San Diego County, the Chula Vista City Council recently passed an ordinance prohibiting anyone under 12 from riding an e-bike—citing the sharp rise in preventable injuries. Measures like this may seem strict, but they reflect the growing concern from parents, doctors, and community leaders alike.

As e-bikes become more common, it may be time for Connecticut and its local towns to consider similar protections—before more children get hurt.

The bottom line for parents: 

E-bikes and e-scooters can be fun, eco-friendly, and convenient—but they’re not toys. Because of the increased speed and weight, it can be harder for children who are still developing their fine motor and cognitive skills to control and ride safely. Understanding the risks and setting clear safety expectations can go a long way in keeping your child safe. Talk to your kids about how to ride responsibly—and make sure they’re wearing the right helmet for the ride.

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