Electric bicycles have changed the way many Californians get around. For adults, teenagers, and families, an eBike can provide a convenient alternative for traveling to school, work, parks, stores, and neighborhoods without relying on a car.
But an eBike isn’t simply a traditional bicycle with a battery, and eBike safety starts with understanding the difference.
Depending on its classification, an electric bicycle can provide motor assistance at speeds of up to 20 or 28 mph. California recognizes three classes of eBikes, and the rules that apply can vary depending on the type of eBike, the rider, and where it is being operated.
With more eBikes sharing California streets with cars, pedestrians, and traditional bicycles, safety should be a priority, especially when younger riders are involved.
Know What Type of eBike You’re Riding
One of the first things riders and parents should understand is that not every electric two-wheel vehicle is legally the same.
Under California Vehicle Code section 312.5, an electric bicycle has fully operable pedals and an electric motor that does not exceed 750 watts. California divides qualifying eBikes into three classes. Class 1 provides pedal assistance up to 20 mph, while Class 2 uses throttle assistance and is also limited to 20 mph. Class 3 provides pedal assistance up to 28 mph.
Electric motorcycles and other electric vehicles may fall into different legal categories. California also changed its treatment of certain off-highway electric motorcycles, commonly called eMotos, beginning in 2026. These vehicles are not necessarily eBikes simply because they are electric and have two wheels.
Parents should therefore know exactly what type of vehicle their child is operating rather than relying solely on the manufacturer’s marketing terminology.
Parents Should Talk About Speed and Responsibility
A young rider may be comfortable riding a traditional bicycle but underestimate how quickly situations develop when motor assistance increases speed.
Intersections, driveways, parked vehicles, pedestrians, and cars turning across a bicycle’s path can create dangerous situations. The same risks apply to traditional riders, which our guide to bicycle and pedestrian safety in California covers in more detail.
Parents should discuss basic riding habits with their children, including:
- Staying focused and avoiding phone use while riding
- Watching carefully at intersections and driveways
- Riding predictably rather than making sudden movements
- Making sure drivers can see them
- Using appropriate safety equipment
- Understanding the rules applicable to their particular eBike
- Never assuming a motorist has seen them
California DMV guidance also reminds bicyclists to obey traffic signs and signals, travel in the same direction as traffic, check before turning or changing lanes, yield to pedestrians, and remain visible.
eBike Safety Is a Driver’s Responsibility Too
eBike safety isn’t only the rider’s responsibility.
Motorists should actively look for cyclists and eBike riders before turning, changing lanes, opening vehicle doors, or entering and exiting driveways.
Drivers should be particularly cautious around schools, parks, residential neighborhoods, shopping areas, and intersections where younger riders may be present.
An eBike can approach faster than a driver expects from a traditional bicycle. Looking once may not be enough.
Look twice before turning.
What If a Child Is Injured in an eBike Accident?
When a child is injured, the first priority is their health.
Seek appropriate medical attention and document the circumstances surrounding the incident. When possible, preserve photographs, witness information, vehicle information, insurance information, and information about the eBike itself.
Determining legal responsibility after an eBike collision can depend heavily on the facts. Potential issues can involve the actions of a motorist, the rider, roadway conditions, or other circumstances surrounding the accident.
Families should avoid assuming they know who was legally responsible before the incident has been properly evaluated.
At Khashan Law Firm, we can help families understand their options when a child or adult has been seriously injured in an accident involving alleged negligence.
eBikes can provide convenient transportation and recreation, but greater speed makes eBike safety especially important, through responsible riding, parental education, and driver awareness.
If you or your child has been injured in an eBike, bicycle, pedestrian, or motor vehicle accident involving another person’s negligence, contact Khashan Law Firm for a FREE consultation. We proudly serve Ontario, Murrieta, Rancho Cucamonga, Temecula, the Inland Empire, and communities throughout California. Hablamos Español.