E-Bike Safety in Florida: What Riders and Parents Should Know

By Robert Johnson, Partner

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) have become increasingly popular across Florida, offering a convenient and efficient way to travel. However, as e-bike use continues to grow, so do concerns about rider safety.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) April 2026 report, e-bike fatalities have increased significantly over the past several years. In 2017, the CPSC identified 5 e-bike-related fatalities nationwide. By 2024, that number had risen to 97 fatalities in a single year. Between 2017 and 2024, the CPSC reported a total of 310 e-bike fatalities.

This year, several South Florida communities have experienced serious e-bike crashes, emphasizing the growing safety concerns surrounding these increasingly popular vehicles. In Wellington, two children were airlifted to a trauma center after an e-bike crash. In West Palm Beach, a rider suffered life-threatening injuries following a collision between an e-bike and a motor vehicle. Jupiter has also experienced a series of high-profile e-bike crashes.

These incidents stress the importance of understanding the risks associated with e-bikes, particularly for younger riders, and staying informed about Florida’s e-bike laws and safe riding practices.

In response to the increase in e-bike incidents, the Village of Wellington recently approved a new micromobility ordinance regulating devices such as e-bikes and motorized scooters. The proposed ordinance is designed to align Wellington’s regulations with Florida law while establishing additional local safety requirements.

Florida law generally treats e-bikes the same as traditional bicycles, meaning operators have the same rights and duties when using public roads and bicycle facilities. See § 316.20655(3), Fla. Stat.

Under current Florida law:

• E-bikes are divided into three classes based on how they provide motor assistance and their maximum assisted speed. See § 316.003(24), Fla. Stat.

• A driver’s license, vehicle registration, title, or insurance is not required solely to operate an e-bike. See § 316.20655(3), Fla. Stat.

• Riders and passengers under the age of 16 must wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet when operating or riding on a Class 3 e-bike. See § 316.20655(4)(e), Fla. Stat.

• Operators of e-bikes generally have the same rights and duties as operators of bicycles under Florida law. See § 316.20655(3), Fla. Stat.

• Counties and municipalities may adopt local regulations governing where e-bikes may be operated, including on certain roads, sidewalks, trails, and shared-use paths, as authorized by state law. See § 316.20655(8), Fla. Stat.

Because local governments may adopt additional regulations, riders should also familiarize themselves with any county or municipal rules that apply where they live, work, or ride.

Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or simply enjoying a ride on an e-bike, following basic safety practices can help reduce the risk of serious injury:

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet.
• Follow posted speed limits and traffic laws.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions while riding.
• Yield to pedestrians and exercise caution on shared paths.
• Parents should ensure children are riding age-appropriate e-bikes and understand the rules of the road.

As e-bike use continues to expand throughout Florida, riders should remain informed about both state law and any applicable local regulations. Understanding the legal requirements and practicing safe riding habits can help reduce the risk of accidents and promote safer roadways and shared paths for everyone.

If you or your loved one suffered an injury in an e-bike crash, Pike & Lustig, LLP can help. Call us now for a free case review. Our firm handles e-bike accident injury claims in Wellington, West Palm Beach, Miami, and throughout South Florida.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique and the law may change. Individuals with questions about their legal rights or obligations should consult a qualified attorney regarding their specific circumstances.