E-bikes exploded in popularity during the pandemic, but they are frequently involved in tragic collisions with minor drivers. Now, municipalities are starting to toughen their stances against e-bikes.
By Neil T. O’Donnell and Connor Graham
Municipalities Take Action Against E-Bike Risks
For example, Orange County, Florida recently enacted a nation-first buyback program.1 This was an effort by DA Todd Spitzer to crack down and reduce collisions that have resulted from the technology. Residents surrendered their bikes at Angel Stadium in exchange for $1,000 gift cards. The money eventually dried up, but many still abandoned their bikes anyway.
Federal E-Bike Regulations and Classification
US regulations limit the e-motor power of e-bikes to less than 750 watts, but some conversion kits can up the wattage by 1,000 points or more.2 Federal policy uses a 3-tier classification system, with speed increasing with each class. State laws typically require class 3 e-bikes, those that can go up to 28 mph, to be driven only by those 16 years old or older. Some states are beginning to roll out licensing requirements, but as of today they remain in the minority. One would imagine that those licensing requirements will become the standard in the future.
Pennsylvania's E-Bike Laws and Requirements
Pennsylvania operates on a different classification system; we define e-bikes as “pedalcycles with electric assist.” There are various rules to that effect, but importantly the Commonwealth requires that the speeds be capped at 20 mph and operators be 16 years old or older.3 Additionally, riders of e-bikes rider, like all bicycle riders must “use reasonable efforts so as not to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.”4 Those “reasonable efforts” may include leaving the roadway altogether.5
E-Bike Litigation and Parental Responsibility
Litigation surrounding these e-bikes has been ramping up the last few years. Regardless of the outcome, people should make common-sense determinations on what is or isn’t safe for their children to ride on. Additionally, it is apparent that some of the parents did not do their due diligence in researching these bikes before purchasing them for their children’s use.
Injured in an E-Bike Accident?
If you or a family member have been injured by an e-bike, call O’Donnell Law Offices at (570) 821-5717. We can help.
Sources
1. Carlton, Jim. The Wheels of Justice Turn to E-Bike Risks. The Wall Street Journal, September 25, 2026.
3. 75 Pa. C.S. § 102; 75 Pa. C.S. § 3514.
4. 75 Pa. C.S. § 3364.
5. Commonwealth v. Linton, 337 A.3d 467, 480-481 (Pa. 2025).