AAA E-RIDE

SAFETY GUIDE
What parents and riders need to know
about electric bikes and scooters.
 THE ROADMAP
Electric bikes and scooters are
changing how people travel, offering
a convenient and eco‑friendly option
for short trips. As e-rides become more

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common in communities, riders and
parents should understand the unique
safety risks that come with higher
speeds and mixed traffic. This guide
provides practical tips to help families
make smart choices, reduce risk, and
ride safely and more confidently.
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To view a specific
section, just click its
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name on the right.
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CHOOSING A DEVICE
Electric bikes and scooters may look similar to traditional bikes and scooters, but motors change how they
accelerate, handle, and stop. Before you buy, match the device to your child or teen’s size, skill, and where
they will ride. Here are the main characteristics of e-bikes and e-scooters.

E-BIKES

Heavier than Operate like a Require confident Increased speeds

traditional bicycles bicycle with balance, steering, raise crash risk and
due to the motor electric assistance. braking, and injury severity.
and battery. weight control.

E-bike basics: pedal assist vs. throttle

Understanding how motors deliver power helps explain why some devices feel harder to control.
Pedal assist Throttle
 The motor engages  The motor propels the bike
only when the rider without pedaling.
pedals.
 Speed can increase rapidly
 Speed increases feel with one control.
more gradual and
controlled.
Throttle-equipped devices can surprise new riders. Speed
may continue even if the rider stops pedaling or panics.

E-bike classes and what

they mean for parents E-BIKE CLASS POWER TYPE TOP SPEED
Many states use a three-
class system, but rules
vary by city, county, Class 1 Pedal-assist only 20 mph
or state.
AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | CHOOSING A DEVICE
Class 2 Throttle-capable 20 mph

Class 3 Higher-speed
(Rider age, helmet use, and licensing 28 mph
requirements vary by state.) pedal-assist

Parent guidance
Start with the slowest class that fits your child’s needs. Avoid devices marketed for speed or commuting in
traffic when introducing a child to electric riding. E‑bikes are heavier than traditional bicycles, so a rider must
be able to confidently balance, stop, and handle the added weight before riding independently.

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 E-SCOOTERS

Are usually Accelerate quickly Have smaller wheels Provide less

stand-up devices with a thumb or that can catch on stability, especially
with a platform finger control. cracks, debris, or for younger or
and handlebars. uneven pavement. inexperienced riders.

Types of e-scooters parents should understand

Not all e-scooters are the same.
Recreational or youth scooters
 Lower top speeds.

 Lighter frames.

 Designed for controlled environments,

not traffic.

High-powered or commuter scooters

 Can reach 15-20 mph or more.

 Accelerate quickly.

 Often designed for adults and urban

travel.

Many e-scooters are built primarily for adult riders, even if

they are easy for children to access. Parents should review
age recommendations, speed capability, and intended use
before allowing a child to ride.

Pediatric physicians warn that falls can cause serious injury,

and many communities restrict who can ride. If your child AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | CHOOSING A DEVICE
rides an e-scooter, treat it like a vehicle with rules and
protective gear, not a toy.

Parent guidance
Choose a low‑speed e‑scooter for beginners. Faster scooters
are harder to control, less stable over bumps, and increase
the risk of falls.

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SMART E-RIDE SAFETY
FEATURES TO LOOK FOR
These features help parents set limits and give young riders more control.

Speed controls that limit risk

 Many e-ride models let parents restrict how fast

the device can go by using a companion app or
adjusting the physical settings on the device.

 Lower speeds give young riders more time to react

and reduce the severity of crashes and injuries.
Parent guidance
Start at the lowest speed setting and increase only
after your child demonstrates consistent control
and judgment.

Simple, predictable controls

 Choose devices with straightforward throttle or

pedal-assist systems that respond smoothly.

 Avoid overly sensitive throttles that can cause

sudden acceleration.

 Controls should feel intuitive and easy to reach

without shifting hand position.

Parent guidance

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | SMART E-RIDE SAFETY FEATURES TO LOOK FOR
Complex or jumpy controls increase the risk of
panic responses, especially for first-time riders.

Strong, reliable braking

 Look for responsive brakes that can stop the

device quickly and smoothly.

 Test braking at low speed before your child rides

independently.

 Poor braking performance becomes more

dangerous as speed increases.
Parent guidance
If it takes too long to stop at walking speed, it will
take much longer at higher speeds.

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 Safe, tested battery and electrical system

 Choose products that meet recognized safety

standards (look for UL or EN certification).

 Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for

device charging and use only the manufacturer’s
original equipment to charge the device.

 Don’t charge unattended overnight, watch for

swelling or odd smells, and avoid aftermarket
batteries and chargers.

Parent guidance
Keep e-ride devices away from water and rain, as
wet batteries can pose a serious fire risk. Always
store and use them in dry conditions to reduce the
chance of electrical hazards.

Proper fit and manageable weight

 The device should match your child’s height,

strength, and coordination.

 Your child should be able to:

 Sit or stand comfortably.
 Reach handlebars and controls easily.
 Place at least one foot firmly on the ground
when stopping.
 Handle the weight when turning or
slowing down.
Parent guidance
If a child struggles to control the device while

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | SMART E-RIDE SAFETY FEATURES TO LOOK FOR
stopped, they will struggle even more while moving.

Stability and visibility features

 Wider tires can improve balance and traction,

especially on uneven pavement.

 Built-in lights and reflectors help make riders

more visible to drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

 A bell or alert helps riders signal their presence

around others.
Parent guidance
Visibility matters even during daytime riding.

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HELMETS AND GEAR:
PROTECTION THAT
FITS THE RIDE
Always wear a helmet, even for short trips. Helmets are one of the simplest and most effective ways to
reduce the risk of serious head injury. Many e-bike and e-scooter crashes happen suddenly, often leaving little
time to react.
The level of protection a rider needs depends on how fast the device can travel. Faster speeds increase both
the likelihood and severity of injury, making helmet choice just as important as helmet use.

Match the Helmet to Your Speed

A standard bicycle helmet may not provide enough protection as speeds increase. Helmet choice should
reflect how fast a device can go and how it is used, not just how it looks.

Common Helmet Standards and What They Cover

UP TO UP TO ABOVE
20 MPH 28 MPH 28 MPH

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | HELMETS AND GEAR: PROTECTION THAT FITS THE RIDE
CPSC (bicycle standard) NTA-8776 (e-bike standard) DOT (motorcycle helmet)
These helmets meet federal This specialized safety standard This standard applies to speeds
safety standards for use at is for higher-speed e-bikes and above 28 mph, with stronger
speeds up to 20 mph. e-scooters up to 28 mph. impact protection and better
coverage of the face, back, and
sides of the head.
Four key helmet reminders for all riders:

1 2 3 4
Wear a helmet Make sure Replace any Replace helmets
on every ride, the helmet fits helmet involved that are cracked,
regardless of properly and stays in a crash. damaged, or no
distance. secure. longer fit properly.

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Fit matters (quick parent check)
A helmet only works when it fits properly and stays in place. AAA guidance stresses proper fit and
consistent use.

Size
Measure your head for approximate size. Try
the helmet to ensure it fits snugly. While it
is sitting flat on top of your head, make sure
the helmet doesn’t rock side to side.

Position
The helmet should sit level on your head
and low on your forehead — one or two
finger-widths above your eyebrow.

Buckles
Center the left buckle under the chin. On most
helmets, the straps can be pulled from the
back of the helmet to lengthen or shorten the
chin straps. This task is easier if you take the
helmet off to make these adjustments.

Chin Strap
Buckle your chin strap. Tighten the strap
until it is snug, so that no more than one or
two fingers fit under the strap.

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | HELMETS AND GEAR: PROTECTION THAT FITS THE RIDE
Side Straps
Adjust the slider on both straps to form a
“V” shape under, and slightly in front of, the
ears. Lock the slider if possible.

Final check
Does their helmet fit
right? Open your mouth Parent guidance
wide…big yawn! The Add basic protective gear. Pediatric guidance commonly
helmet should be pulled recommends:
down on the head. If not,
tighten the chin strap.  Closed-toe shoes.
 Elbow and knee pads.
 Bright reflective gear and lights for low-light conditions.

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LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS
PARENTS SHOULD KNOW
Laws governing e‑bike use vary by state and city, including rules on age limits, helmet use, where
devices may be ridden, and required equipment. Parents should review local laws before purchasing
an e‑bike and set riding rules that at a minimum reflect those requirements.

Class 3 e‑bikes often have age restrictions.

In many states, riders must be at least 16
years old to legally operate a Class 3 e‑bike.

Helmet use is typically required on

Class 3 e‑bikes, regardless of the
rider’s age. This applies even in
states where helmet use is optional
for slower e‑bike classes.

Where e‑bikes can be ridden

depends on the class. Some
higher‑speed e‑bikes may be
restricted from bike paths,
sidewalks, or certain trails.

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS PARENTS SHOULD KNOW

Lighting requirements
apply after dark. Most
states require a white front
light and a red light or red
reflector when riding an
e-bike at night.

Parent guidance
A device that looks similar to a regular bike
may carry very different legal responsibilities.

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MODIFIED OR DECEPTIVELY MARKETED
DEVICES WARNING
Some electric bikes and scooters can be modified or unlocked to go faster than advertised, often without
parents realizing it.
In addition, some two-wheeled electric products are marketed as “e-bikes” even though they exceed the
federal definition, which limits motor power to 750 watts and speed to 20 mph without pedaling. When
devices go beyond these limits, they may be subject to different rules, restrictions, or requirements when

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | MODIFIED OR DECEPTIVELY MARKETED DEVICES WARNING

used in public spaces.
Higher speeds lead to more severe crashes. Modified or higher-powered devices should be treated as
higher-risk rides that require stronger supervision and safety precautions.

What parents can do:

Purchase devices Look for models Periodically check Talk with kids Match helmets
from trusted with parental device settings about why speed and protective
retailers that controls, locked to ensure speed limits exist and gear to the
clearly describe speed settings, limits have not how higher fastest possible
motor power, top or app-based changed. speeds increase speed, not the
speed, and device limits. injury risk. intended or
classification. advertised speed.

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WHERE TO RIDE:
SET RULES BEFORE
THE FIRST RIDE
Where your child rides matters as much as what they ride. Electric bikes and scooters operate in shared
spaces with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and the safest riding areas vary by device and community
type.

Before riding, review your city and state rules for e-bikes and e-scooters. Laws differ widely by jurisdiction
and may change based on device class, rider age, or location.

1. CHOOSE APPROPRIATE RIDING SPACES

In metropolitan or higher‑traffic areas

 Bike lanes when available.

E-bikes  Low-speed streets with clear sight lines. Busy urban streets
increase exposure
 Streets designed for bicycle use.
to vehicles, turning
movements, and
 Bike lanes where permitted.
driveways. Riders
 Calm streets with light traffic. must be predictable
E-scooters
 Areas with smooth pavement and and highly visible.
minimal obstacles.

In small communities or residential neighborhoods

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | WHERE TO RIDE: SET RULES BEFORE THE FIRST RIDE
 Neighborhood streets with low speed
E-bikes limits. Even in smaller
 Designated bike routes. communities,
driveways, parked
 Quiet residential streets where local cars, and intersections
rules allow. remain common crash
E-scooters locations.
 Areas with minimal vehicle traffic and
pedestrian crowding.

Parks and trails

 Use only if local rules allow the specific If a location feels

device and class. unsafe at walking
E-bikes and E-scooters  Some trails permit pedal-assist e-bikes speed, it will feel
but restrict e-scooters or higher-speed unsafe at electric
models. speed.

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 2. SIDEWALKS AND PEDESTRIAN AREAS
Sidewalk riding creates risk for both riders and people on foot. Many communities restrict or prohibit
powered devices on sidewalks.

 E-scooters pose a higher risk in

pedestrian areas due to quick
acceleration and smaller wheels.
 E-bikes travel faster than pedestrians
expect, increasing the chance of Sidewalk use should
conflicts. be the exception, not
E-bikes and E-scooters
If your child rides anywhere near people the default, and only
walking, require: where permitted.
 Slower speeds.
 Full control at all times.
 Yielding to pedestrians every time.

3. RIDING AT NIGHT OR IN LOW VISIBILITY

Visibility drops quickly after sunset, and crash risk increases.

Require:
If your child cannot be
 A working front light and rear light. easily seen from all
E-bikes and E-scooters
 Reflectors on the device or rider. directions, they should
not ride at night.
 Bright or reflective clothing.

4. RULES OF THE ROAD: WHAT YOUNG RIDERS MUST DO

In many communities, e-bike riders must follow the same traffic rules as bicyclists when operating on
streets or in bike lanes.

These rules often include:

Parents should
 Obeying traffic lights and stop signs. reinforce that traffic
E-bikes and E-scooters  Following right-of-way rules. rules apply even on

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | WHERE TO RIDE: SET RULES BEFORE THE FIRST RIDE
 Riding in the same direction as traffic. short trips or familiar
streets.
 Stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks.

Important reminder for parents

Check local rules before allowing your child to ride. Review them together so expectations are clear.
State and local laws may set different rules for:

Where each class Where Helmet Minimum Sidewalk and

of e-bike can ride e-scooters requirements rider ages trail access
are allowed
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SAFETY TIPS FOR
RIDERS (KID-FRIENDLY
CHECKLIST)
Here is a AAA E-Ride Ready checklist to use before every ride.

Gear up

Helmet. Strap it snug.

Closed-toe shoes. Pads are recommended.
Bright and/or reflective clothing.

Check the ride

Confirm battery level so your child does not “race

home” when power drops.
Be sure you have enough air in your tires.
Test brakes and ensure that the handlebar feels
tight and stable.
Take a slow, brief ride to check that your e-ride is
working properly.

Ride smart

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | SAFETY TIPS FOR RIDERS (KID-FRIENDLY CHECKLIST)
Start slow and build skill before speed.
Keep both hands on the handlebars. No texting.
Avoid wearing earbuds. Stay alert.
Obey traffic signals, signs, and posted speed limits.
Watch for cracks, gravel, potholes, and wet leaves,
where small wheels can catch.

Be predictable

Slow down at driveways and intersections.

Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Signal turns and look over your shoulder before
moving left or turning.
Yield to pedestrians. Slow down and use an audible
signal before passing.

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THE PARENT SAFETY TALK:
A SIMPLE FRAMEWORK
THAT WORKS
Clear expectations reduce arguments and help kids build safer riding habits.

The 5-minute E-Ride Safety Talk (script + rules)

1. Set the tone
(30 seconds)

“ I want you to ride and have fun. I also want you to

come home safe. E-rides go faster than regular bikes and
scooters, and crashes can cause serious injuries if you aren’t

”
careful.

2. Agree on non-negotiables
(1 minute)
 Wear a helmet every ride,
fully strapped and fitted
correctly.
 No phone use and no
earbuds while riding.

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | THE PARENT SAFETY TALK: A SIMPLE FRAMEWORK THAT WORKS
 No riding at night without
lights and reflective gear.
 No passengers, no matter
the type of e-ride.

3. Pick where they can ride

(1 minute)
 Approved routes only.
 Follow bike lane and
sidewalk rules based on
local laws.
 Obey traffic lights and
signs, just like drivers do.
 Slow down and prepare
to stop near driveways,
intersections, and
crowded areas.
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 4. Teach one core skill
(2 minutes)
Practice these in a parking lot or
quiet street:
Family riding agreement
(one-box pledge)
 Smooth starts and controlled
stops. I agree to:
 Looking left, right, then left  Wear a helmet every ride,
again at intersections. properly buckled and
 Signaling and checking behind secured.
before turning.  Ride without distractions.
 Follow our approved routes.
What signaling means:
 Slow down near people,
Hand signals tell people
driveways, and cars.
around you where you
are going. Riders use  Stop riding if conditions feel
their arm to point left unsafe.
or right before turning,
Parent/Guardian:
just like drivers use turn
signals. Left Right Stop

Before signaling, teach your child to glance over their shoulder to Rider:
check for cars, bikes, or people approaching from behind.
Date:

5. Create a check-in plan

(30 seconds)

“ Text or call me when you arrive. If the e-bike or e-scooter

”
feels unsafe, stop riding and call me.

AAA E-RIDE SAFETY GUIDE | THE PARENT SAFETY TALK: A SIMPLE FRAMEWORK THAT WORKS
Reminders for drivers:
Drivers play a key role in keeping e‑riders safe:

 Stay alert behind the wheel. Avoid distractions and

keep your focus on the road at all times.

 Expect e-rides to accelerate quickly and appear

suddenly.

 Check your surroundings before turning or

reversing. E-riders are smaller and can be harder to
see, especially in blind spots.

 Watch for e-riders in bike lanes and near

intersections. Give riders extra space when passing.

 Slow down in areas where riders may be present,

including trails, crosswalks, parks, schools, and
neighborhoods.

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