E-Bike Safety & Children: What Parents Should Know in PA 
The popularity of e-bikes is rising—but with it come important safety and legal concerns for kids. Here are some key points:
- Age Requirement: In Pennsylvania, riders must be at least 16 years old to legally operate an e-bike.
- Helmet Rules: Helmets are required for children under 12 and strongly recommended for everyone. At higher e-bike speeds, a helmet can be life-saving.
- Motor Vehicle Laws Apply: E-bike riders must follow the same rules as cars—obeying traffic signals, riding in designated lanes, and yielding appropriately.
- Injury Risks: E-bikes can reach speeds of 20+ mph, increasing risks of serious injuries like concussions, fractures, and road rash.
- Maturity & Awareness: Many kids lack the experience and judgment to safely navigate traffic at motorized speeds, raising their vulnerability to accidents.
- Enforcement Growing: Police across PA are issuing reminders and citations due to a rise in underage riders.
Parents: Talk with your children about e-bike laws and safety. Staying informed today can prevent tragic accidents tomorrow.
Thank you and stay safe,
Pleasant Hills Police Department
