BICYCLE AND E-BIKE SAFETY

E-BIKE SAFETY FLYERS

E-BIKE VIDEOS

E-BIKE, ELECTRIC SCOOTER,
AND E-MOTORCYCLE SAFETY

Electric bikes, electric scooters, and e-motorcycles are becoming more common throughout San Diego County. While these devices can be a convenient way to travel, they also come with important safety rules and legal requirements.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office encourages riders and families to understand the differences between these devices, follow traffic laws, and make safe choices on the road, in bike lanes, and around pedestrians.

Know before you ride: Not every electric two-wheeled vehicle is legally an e-bike. Some may be classified as scooters, mopeds, or motorcycles, with different rules for age, helmets, licensing, registration, and insurance.

Why This Matters

Not all electric two-wheeled vehicles are the same. Some are bicycles. Some are scooters. Others may legally be considered motorcycles or motor-driven cycles.

  • Follow the law
  • Use the correct safety equipment
  • Avoid fines and citations
  • Reduce the risk of crashes and injuries

Safety Reminders

  • Stop completely at stop signs and traffic lights.
  • Ride with traffic, not against it.
  • Wear a helmet when required by law. Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders.
  • Use lights and reflectors at night.
  • Stay alert and avoid distractions.
  • Watch for cars, pedestrians, and road hazards.
  • Ride at a safe speed for the area and conditions.

General Rules of the Road

  • Traffic lights, stop signs, signs, and signals apply to riders.
  • Riders should travel as close to the right side of the road as practical, unless it is unsafe to do so.
  • Riding against the flow of traffic is prohibited.
  • Sidewalks and crosswalks are intended for pedestrians.
  • Reckless riding can place the rider and others at risk.

E-Bike Classifications

Class 1 E-Bike

  • Pedal-assist only
  • Maximum speed of 20 mph
  • Helmet required for riders under 18

Class 2 E-Bike

  • Throttle assist
  • Maximum speed of 20 mph
  • Helmet required for riders under 18

Class 3 E-Bike

  • Pedal-assist only
  • Maximum speed of 28 mph
  • Rider must be at least 16 years old
  • Helmet required for all riders

Important Note About Modifications

It is against the law in California to modify or tamper with an electric bicycle in a way that changes its speed capability unless the rider also changes the bike’s labeled classification as required by law.

Happy child wearing a helmet riding a bike.

E-Bikes at a Glance

  • E-bikes do not require a driver’s license.
  • E-bikes do not require registration.
  • E-bikes do not require insurance.
  • Riders under 18 must wear a helmet on Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes.
  • Class 3 riders must wear a helmet and be at least 16 years old.

E-bikes may be allowed on bike paths, bike lanes, and some trails, depending on local rules and trail restrictions. Riders should always check local regulations before riding on shared-use paths or trails.

Electric Scooter Laws in California

Definition of an Electric Scooter

  • A two-wheeled device
  • Equipped with handlebars
  • Designed with a floorboard for standing
  • Powered by an electric motor
  • Not classified as a motorcycle or moped

Basic Rules for Electric Scooters

  • A license is required. Any class of driver’s license or learner’s permit may satisfy this requirement.
  • Registration is not required.
  • Insurance is not required.
  • Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
  • The maximum speed is 15 mph.
  • Riding on the sidewalk is prohibited.
  • Electric scooters may be used on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less, or in bike lanes where allowed.

When a Scooter May Be Reclassified

  • Exceeds 15 mph
  • Does not have a floorboard
  • Has a seat and no pedals
  • Resembles a moped or motorcycle in design

E-Motorcycles and Motor-Driven Cycles

E-motorcycles are fully electric motor-powered vehicles designed for higher speeds and do not rely on pedaling.

  • A driver’s license, often with an M1 or M2 endorsement
  • Registration
  • Insurance
  • A helmet for all riders

Parents and Guardians

  • Know what type of vehicle it is
  • Know how fast it can go
  • Know whether it has pedals, throttle, or both
  • Know whether a helmet is legally required
  • Know whether the rider meets the minimum age requirement
  • Know where the vehicle may be used legally

Common California Vehicle Code Violations

  • CVC 21200(a)(1): Bicyclists must follow the rules of the road
  • CVC 21453(a): Running a red light
  • CVC 22450(a): Running a stop sign
  • CVC 21663: Riding on the sidewalk
  • CVC 21651(a)(1): Riding against traffic
  • CVC 23103(a): Reckless driving
  • CVC 23109(a): Speed contest
  • CVC 21201(d)(2): Required lights and reflectors at night
  • CVC 21200(a): Helmet required under 18
  • CVC 21213(a): Class 3 e-bike rider must be at least 16
  • CVC 21213(b): Helmet required for Class 3 e-bike riders
  • CVC 12500(a): No license
  • CVC 16028(a): No insurance
  • CVC 4000(a)(1): No registration
  • CVC 14607: Parent allowing child to ride unlawfully on a public roadway

Ride Safe and Ride Responsibly

  • Know what type of vehicle you are operating
  • Follow traffic laws
  • Wear proper safety equipment
  • Ride only where permitted
  • Avoid unsafe modifications
  • Respect pedestrians and other road users

Report Dangerous or Illegal Riding

If you see dangerous or illegal riding behavior, report it through the appropriate non-emergency channel in your community.

Call 9-1-1 for emergencies or immediate threats to safety.

For non-emergency concerns, contact your local law enforcement agency or city reporting system, if available.

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