If your family plans to give e-vehicles (e-bikes, e-skateboards or e-scooters) this holiday season, or if your student already has one, please review these important safety reminders from the Irvine Police Department.
The Irvine Unified School District (IUSD), the Irvine Police Department (IPD) and the City of Irvine continue to receive reports of students riding e-bikes recklessly, including riding in lanes of traffic, running into pedestrians on sidewalks, swarming pedestrians and runners and other risky actions that have resulted in serious injuries.
As our educational partners, we encourage our parents and families to have conversations with their child about riding responsibly and with caution, to help keep themselves and all people in our City safe.
Important Regulations
Age and Licensing Requirements
- E-scooters: Riders must be 16 years or older and have a valid driver’s license or permit.
- E-bike classifications: There are three different e-bike classifications. California law restricts Type 3 e-bikes (up to 28 mph) to riders 16 and older.
Do not allow e-Bike Modifications
Students may be tempted to modify their e-bikes to increase the speed by purchasing a kit online or having a friend modify the bike for them. This can be extremely dangerous. Many e-bikes are not equipped to handle higher speeds, and the braking systems may not be sufficient.
Safety Tips for All E-Vehicles
- Follow the Rules of the Road
Obey traffic laws: stop at signals, yield to pedestrians, and ride with the flow of traffic.
- Always Wear a Helmet
Required for riders under 18 and all Type 3 e-bike users. Helmets greatly reduce the risk of serious injury.
- Stay Visible
Use a front white light and rear red reflector, wear reflective clothing, and avoid poorly lit areas at night.
- Avoid Distractions
Do not use mobile devices or wear headphones while riding. Stay alert to your surroundings.
- Ride Courteously
Yield to pedestrians, use a bell or audible signal when passing, and slow down in crowded areas.
- Maintain Safe Speeds
Practice at lower speeds, understand your braking distance, and ride within your comfort and equipment limits.
Did You Know?
- E-vehicles must be ridden safely on shared paths.
- Riders must always yield to pedestrians.
- Proper equipment, responsible behavior and rule-following significantly reduce accidents.
By following these guidelines, students can enjoy their e-vehicles safely and responsibly. Thank you for helping protect our community!