Electric Bicycle Accidents and Minors in California
Why E-Bike Crashes Are a Growing Public Safety Concern Across the State
In California, motor vehicle collisions involving bicyclists, motorcycle riders, and increasingly, electric bicycle (E-bike) riders, have been rising dramatically—especially among children and teenagers. Southern California cities like Los Angeles, and Woodland Hills, have seen a surge in serious E-bike and E-scooter accidents involving minors.
What Counts as an Electric Bicycle Under California Law?
Understanding the Classification System
Under California Vehicle Code §24016, an electric bicycle is defined as a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor under 750 watts. The state recognizes three classes:
- Class 1 & 2: No age requirement; helmets required only for those under 18.
- Class 3: Riders must be 16 or older and wear a helmet.
Unfortunately, many minors ride E-bikes and scooters without supervision, and regulatory enforcement is inconsistent, making it difficult to prevent injuries.
What the Data Tells Us About E-Bike Injuries Among Minors
A Rapidly Growing Problem Across California
A recent JAMA Network study and data from several California counties show an alarming trend:
- E-bike injuries grew from 751 in 2017 to over 23,493 in 2022.
- E-scooter injuries rose from 8,566 in 2017 to 56,867 in 2022.
- Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) saw injuries grow from just 7 cases in 2019 to 116 in 2024.
- In Marin County, E-bike accident calls for minors were 9x higher than for adults in just one month.
- Los Angeles County saw a 67% increase in E-bike injuries among children and teens between 2021 and 2024.
Common Injuries Include:
- Head trauma such as skull and facial fractures
- Spinal injuries and internal organ damage
- Fractures and broken bones
(Read more on our Traumatic Brain Injury blog and Catastrophic Injury blog)
Who Is Liable in a California E-Bike Accident Involving a Minor?
Understanding Legal Responsibility and Insurance Coverage
E-bikes are exempt from California's motor vehicle financial responsibility laws, meaning riders don’t need a license or insurance.
- If a minor is at fault, victims may need to pursue compensation from the parents, often through:
- Homeowner’s insurance
- Umbrella policies
- Personal assets
- If the minor is not at fault, they may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering damages
- Future care compensation
How the Law Offices of Ali Taheripour Can Help
Every case is fact-specific. That’s why working with an experienced California personal injury attorney can help you to navigate the legal process and securing fair compensation. With more than 20 years of experience, the Law Offices of Ali Taheripour has earned a reputation for dedicated legal representation across Los Angeles, Woodland Hills, and throughout California. Whether you’re the parent of an injured child or the victim of an E-bike crash caused by a minor, our legal team can help you navigate the legal process in order to obtain compensation.