Before You Buy: E-Bike Safety Information from Our Trauma Center

The increasing use of e-bikes and other electric mobility devices has created new transportation opportunities, but it has also introduced significant safety challenges for riders, pedestrians and motorists. As e-bike popularity continues to grow, Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center’s (PVHMC) Trauma Medical Director Michael Jimenez, MD, urges families to take the time to learn safety measures before letting their child ride them.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently reported from 2017 to 2024 there were 311 deaths and 155,200 emergency room visits from e-bike related incidents.

Here at PVHMC, our Emergency Department and Trauma Center have seen an alarming trend of admissions doubling year over year since 2023.

• 2023 – 54
• 2024 – 102
• 2025 – 212
• July 2026 – 213

The age group at highest risk are those 15-55 years old, accounting for 74% of all PVHMC admissions.

California puts e-bikes into three separate categories:

• Class 1: the bike motor only works when the rider is pedaling, and it can reach speeds up to 20 mph
• Class 2: includes a throttle that allows the rider to use the bike motor without pedaling or with pedaling. It can reach speeds up to 20 mph
• Class 3: may or may not have a throttle but can reach top speeds up to 28 mph or more. You must be 16 years or older to operate a Class 3 e-bike.

“The popularity of e-bikes, especially among teens, has resulted in an upward trend in injuries and unfortunately some have been fatal,” said Dr. Jimenez. “Before you purchase an e-bike, consider your child’s age, skill level, maturity, and ability to use a vehicle that could potentially go as fast as 28 mph.”

If you are considering an e-bike for yourself or your child, here are facts that you should know prior to your purchase:

• In 2024, there were 1,566 e-bike crashes that resulted in injuries in California.E-bikes are not recommended for kids younger than age 9
• Children aged 14 years and younger have more frequent and serious e-bike injuries according to a BMJ journal study.

Individuals may also confuse e-motorcycles with e-bikes when shopping around, but e-motorcycles can reach far faster speeds than e-bikes. It is important to review the product information page before purchasing an e-bike or other e-mobility device.

“Injuries can be prevented by using a helmet, gloves and reflective clothing and by learning how to ride defensively,” adds Dr. Jimenez, “No phone, no earphones and understanding the safety laws are the safest way to enjoy an e-bike.”