The San Diego City Council passed a set of electronic bike regulations Tuesday intended to improve safety for children and families and reduce reckless riding.
The regulations are subject to a second reading on June 30, but if approved again, they will go into effect 30 days later.
"Without a doubt these regulations will save lives," said Councilman Raul Campillo, who led the effort to get the regulations passed. "I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has rallied around this important issue to help keep children and families safe throughout our city."
Specifically, the regulations would:
-- Impose an age limit of 12 years for class 1 and 2 e-bikes;
-- Reinforce helmet requirements and passenger restrictions (passengers are only allowed if the e-bike is specifically designed to accommodate multiple riders with a permanent second seat); and
-- Provide an option for cited individuals to complete an e-bike safety course instead of a $25 fine.
Additionally, 30 days of public outreach would be required before enforcement goes into effect, followed by a 60-day warning period before citations would be issued.
"As a pediatric trauma surgeon at Rady Children's Hospital who cares for injured children every week, I've seen how quickly e-bike crashes can change a family's life," Dr. Romeo Ignacio Jr. said. "Setting a minimum age of 12 is a simple, practical safeguard that helps keep our youngest riders safe while still supporting active transportation for older youth.
"Children under 12 simply aren't developmentally ready for the speed, weight, and split-second decisions e-bikes demand," he added. "This proposal for an age restriction gives families a clear standard, helps schools and community groups teach safety more effectively, and aligns San Diego with national trends toward responsible e-mobility."