E‑bikes and e‑scooters can be fun and convenient—but they move much faster than traditional bikes and scooters. Higher speeds increase the risk of serious injuries, especially head and brain injuries. Understanding the device, following safety laws, and using the right protective gear can help keep kids and teens safer on every ride.

This guidance also applies to other electric‑powered riding devices, such as electric skateboards, hoverboards, and self‑balancing boards. These devices can reach high speeds, are often harder to control, and carry similar injury risks.

Why this matters

• Some electric‑powered riding devices can travel at very high speeds.
• Faster speeds increase the risk of serious injuries, especially head injuries.

Take Action!

Know the device before your child rides.

• Check how fast it goes: If it goes over 20 mph or has a throttle, it is not meant for kids
• Follow helmet and safety laws
• Set clear family riding rules

Parents play the biggest role in preventing injuries.

Know the Speed

Not all electric‑powered riding devices are the same.

• Class 1: Pedal assist up to 20 mph
• Class 2: Throttle‑powered up to 20 mph
• Class 3: Pedal assist up to 28 mph
• Devices that go over 20 mph without pedaling are considered high‑powered devices and may require licensing and a DOT approved helmet. 

Modifying a device to make it go faster is dangerous and may make the device not street legal.

Helmet & Safety Gear

• Helmet laws vary by state and local community. For example, in Utah, riders under 21 are required to wear a helmet.
• No matter where you ride, wearing a helmet every time is the safest choice.
• Faster speeds require more protection, such as e‑bike helmets (NTA‑8776), full‑face helmets, or DOT‑approved motorcycle helmets for high‑speed devices.
• Use lights and wear bright or reflective clothing. 

A helmet only works when it’s properly worn—every ride, every time.

Ride Safely

• Follow all traffic laws, signs, and signals.
• Yield to pedestrians and slow down at intersections.
• Watch for road hazards that could cause a crash.
• Leave the headphones and earbuds at home. Riders need to be able to hear their surroundings 

Age Guidelines

Pediatric experts recommend waiting until at least age 16 before allowing children to ride electric‑powered devices.

• Under 8 years: Not allowed to ride
• Ages 8–15: Ride with adult supervision or after completing an approved safety course

Parents Play a Big Role

• Choose slower, appropriate devices. If it goes over 20 mph or has a throttle, it is not meant for kids.
• Set clear expectations before riding begins. Take a safety course with your child.
• Model safe riding behavior and helmet use. 

Ride smart. Reduce risk. Protect growing brains.