Unwrap the Ride: Fun meets responsibility
The holidays bring many new “toys” for the kids. New toys bring the potential for new bumps and bruises, given that Cook Children's Health Care System tends to see an uptick in injuries due to e-bikes and e-scooters after the holidays. Most electronic bikes and scooters can reach speeds of more than 20 mph. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends that children under age 12 should not operate any e-bike that travels more than 10 mph. Under the Texas Transportation Code, an e-bike is a bicycle with fully operational pedals, a motor of less than 750 watts, and an assisted top speed of 28 mph or less. Texas classifies e-bikes into three categories. There are no age limits for riding a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike, but the minimum age for a Class 3 is 15 years.
Sharon Evans, trauma injury prevention manager for Cook Children's Health Care System, explains that, while these may seem like gifts without much concern, it is important to understand they are vehicles. She offers families tips on how to help their children safely enjoy e-bikes and e-scooters.
“Always wear a helmet,” emphasizes Evans.
- Always wear a helmet: Make sure you have the right helmet. For e-bikes/e-scooters that go up to 20 mph, a bike helmet is sufficient, but parents may want to invest in a stronger helmet to better protect their children.
- Perform a safety check before each ride:
- Check the tires. Ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure on the sidewall.
- Check brake levers. Squeeze them while rolling the bike forward and backward to ensure the brakes engage and stop the e-bike/e-scooter.
- Inspect your e-bike/e-scooter for loose nuts or anything that looks abnormal.
- Follow the rules of the road:
- Always ride on the right, in the same direction as traffic. Use the bike lane if available.
- top and look both ways before entering a street or crossing an intersection.
- Stop at all intersections.
- Obey all traffic lights and traffic signs.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Do not talk on the phone or text. Do not wear earbuds; you cannot hear what is happening around you.
- Night rides: Make sure you wear bright, reflective clothing. Ensure your e-bike/e-scooter has a light and reflectors.
