Most people are familiar with or even have ridden an electric bike, or commonly known as an E-bike. However, not everybody knows what exactly makes these vehicles legal, and how to stay safe while riding them. 

Rules and regulations in the Los Angeles Country require electric bikes to have fully functioning pedals, and a motor will less than 750 watts. There are three permitted types of bicycles : 

• Type 1: Bikes with a top assisted speed of 20 mph that must be pedaled to operate. 
• Type 2: Bikes with a top assisted speed of 20 mph that can be operated without   pedaling by using a handlebar mounted throttle. 
• Type 3: Bikes with a top assisted speed of 28 mph that must be pedaled to operate. 

Sur-Rons, a popular bike for teens, are technically classified as Electric Motorcycles, and are not street legal. Penalties for riding these illegally include fines, vehicle impoundment, or even jail. 

Riders are required to follow all traffic laws and rules of the road. Bikes are also not allowed to be driven on sidewalks, unless the rider is under 10 years of age. E-Bikes do not require a licence, permit, or registration to ride, only a small sticker on the bike from the manufacturer specifying the engine model. 

It is crucial that riders follow rules of the road, and pay attention to their surroundings. E-bike accidents can be fatal, with 23,500 accidents occurring annually. It is critical that riders are aware of all vehicles and pedestrians around them. In accidents, helmets save 97% of lives, making them essential for all bikers to wear. Addison Borland was in a E-bike accident, where a car pulled out and hit them. Thankfully, Addison was wearing a helmet, and survived with minor injuries. She says “I couldn’t see the car coming, and they didn’t check before pulling out.” Accidents like these could be prevented by checking all surroundings and wearing protective gear in case of impact. E-Bikes are fun and convenient ways to travel, as long as they are ridden legally and with precaution.