In recent years, the streets and bike lanes of Irvine have seen a notable rise in the number of electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters). While these eco-friendly, cost-effective modes of transportation offer a convenient way to get around the city, they've also contributed to a growing number of accidents and injuries. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to e-mobility, understanding the causes behind these incidents—and how to stay safe—has never been more important.

Why E-Bikes and Scooters Are Gaining Popularity

Irvine has long been known for its master-planned communities, wide roads, and extensive bike paths, making it a perfect testing ground for alternative forms of transportation. Over the past few years, the popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters has skyrocketed due to a number of reasons:

• Convenience: Unlike traditional bicycles, e-bikes require less physical exertion, making them appealing for longer commutes or quick errands.
• Eco-Friendliness: Zero emissions and lower carbon footprints appeal to Irvine's environmentally conscious population.
• Cost Savings: With rising gasoline prices, many residents appreciate the affordability of e-bikes and e-scooters.

This rapid adoption has come with a downside: an uptick in accidents linked to e-bike and e-scooter incidents, especially amongst adolescents.

So why are accidents increasing? 

1. Increases in Speed and Power
   • Many modern e-bikes and e-scooters can reach speeds upwards of 20 mph. For comparison, the average adult bike rider goes around 13 miles per hour.
2. Lack of Rider Experience
   
   • Like stated before, statistics have found that a large proportion of e-scooter and e-bike users are adolescents, who may have little to no experience when it comes to proper braking technique, balance, and safe traffic navigation. In fact, in an article released by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, injuries related to micromobility devices continue to increase year after year, with almost half of all estimated e-bike injuries from 2017-2022 happening in 2022 alone. About 36% of these micromobility injuries were accounted for by children under the age of 14, double their 18% proportion of the United States population. 
3. Distracted Riding
   • Just like with cars, many riders also use their smartphones while riding e-scooters and e-bikes. When combined with the unprotected nature of e-scooters and e-bikes, using your smartphone while riding is a recipe for disaster.
4. Inadequate Protective Gear 

   • Despite the speeds e-bikes and e-scooters can achieve, riders often skip helmets or other safety equipment. A simple pothole or collision could send a rider flying, resulting in injuries that could have been mitigated—or avoided—by wearing a helmet.

Legal and Safety Considerations
Local regulations and state laws govern where and how e-bikes and scooters can be ridden. Some areas prohibit motorized vehicles on sidewalks, while others have designated lanes or paths. Riders may not be aware of these rules, creating confusion and potential hazards. In the event of an accident, determining who is at fault can be complicated, especially if both parties share a path intended for multiple uses.

How to Stay Safe (and Keep Others Safe)

1. Wear Protective Gear: A properly fitted helmet is critical. Consider knee and elbow pads if you're new to riding or plan on traveling at higher speeds.
2. Practice First: If you've never ridden an e-bike or e-scooter, practice in a quiet parking lot or on a low-traffic street. Learn how the brakes respond and get comfortable with balancing at different speeds.
3. Follow Traffic Laws: E-bikes and e-scooters share the road with cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. Obey traffic signals, yield to pedestrians, and avoid weaving in and out of lanes.
4. Stay Alert: Keep your eyes on the road, and avoid using your phone or headphones while riding. Distractions drastically reduce reaction time.
5. Perform Routine Checks: Before each ride, make sure the tires are inflated, the brakes function, and lights or reflectors are in working order—especially if you're riding in the early morning or after dusk.
6. Choose Safe Routes: Irvine has a well-designed network of bike lanes and multi-use paths. Opt for these dedicated lanes over high-traffic roads whenever possible.