Youth e‑bike safety concerns lead to fines and warnings in US and Canada

In Florida, a sharp rise in e‑bike and e‑scooter injuries—up 80% in the past year—has prompted health experts to warn parents. Specialist Gina Baez notes that most injured children are 10‑12 years old, often suffer limb and head injuries, and frequently ride without helmets. Fatalities have occurred, and many riders exceed speed limits, with some tampering to reach 60 mph. A proposed state bill that would have required e‑bike riders to yield to pedestrians and limited speeds near pedestrians was vetoed by Governor Ron DeSantis.

In North Vancouver, Canada, a 15‑year‑old was fined $368 and had an e‑dirt bike impounded after performing wheelies on a public road. Police highlighted a broader campaign against unsafe e‑mobility use, noting a rise in complaints about reckless riding, lack of helmets, and operation on sidewalks. Since May, 15 tickets have been issued for e‑mobility violations, and authorities continue to educate riders and parents about legal requirements.