Many parents probably wouldn’t buy their child a motorcycle, but there are parallels between motorcycles and e-bikes that make them a potential safety risk.

E-bike sales have skyrocketed in recent years, but both e-bikes and e-scooters pose increased risks for riders. They have more power and move faster than traditional bikes and scooters, meaning reduced reaction time and increased impact during accidents.

“We have seen all kinds of traumatic injuries from these, similar to riding a bicycle at high speeds or a motorcycle at low speeds or even being struck by a car,” explained Dr. Frank Petruzella, our division chief for pediatric emergency medicine. “I have seen facial lacerations, broken jaws, lost teeth, skull fractures, fractures of the extremities and severe abdominal injuries, even lacerations to the liver or spleen.”

Like traditional bicycles, skateboards and scooters, wearing a properly fitted helmet is crucial to the safety of the rider.

“Head injuries are much more likely when not wearing head protection, including skull fractures and brain bleeds,” shared Dr. Petruzella. “If these injuries are sustained, they can result in ongoing medical problems such as seizures, ICU admission and the need for rehabilitation.”

Corri Miller-Hobbs, program coordinator for Safe Kids Virginia at CHoR, worries about the growing popularity of e-bikes because they’re so new and the rules surrounding use and safety aren't widely-known.

“Parents and caregivers should read e-bike instruction manuals and safety information before they even purchase an e-bike,” said Miller-Hobbs. “Also pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions as it relates to minimum age to ride an e-bike and make sure you do the helmet fit test on your child before allowing them to ride.”

There are special bike helmets built to provide better protection at higher speeds. Examine labels closely to make sure the helmet you select is approved for safety by the CPSC, ASTM International or the Snell Foundation.

How much power does an e-bike have?   

There are three classes of e-bikes:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph
• Class 2: Includes a throttle, can be powered without pedaling, maximum speed 20 mph
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, but can reach a maximum speed of 28 mph, making helmets mandatory for all riders

What does Virginia law say about e-bikes?

In Virginia, you must be 14 to operate a class 3 e-bike unless supervised by an adult and you’re required to wear a helmet. Not only that, the e-bike must include front and rear lights and labels that indicate:

• The class level of the e-bike
• The top assisted speed
• The total electric motor wattage

E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bikes, which makes them more dangerous for pedestrians. E-bike riders should use bike lanes or roads instead of sidewalks to protect both riders and pedestrians and obey all traffic laws.

Our experts agree the lack of information may be the biggest safety issue.

“I think there is less of a realization of the dangers e-bikes and e-scooters pose,” Dr. Petruzella shared. “People see them more as bicycles, when in fact they really are more like ATVs or motorcycles.”

Learn about our children’s trauma center and the access to specialists you get at our pediatric emergency department.