The Growing Concern of Electric Bikes and Safety in Scottsdale
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have become a common sight in Scottsdale, Arizona. They can be found on roads, sidewalks, and even in parks. With their increasing popularity, concerns about safety and regulation have also risen, especially when it comes to children.
Lindsay McGuire, who is visiting Scottsdale from Minnesota with her daughters, has noticed the prevalence of e-bike and e-scooter rental shops. When her daughters asked to ride them, she firmly said no. “That’s not something we’re going to do,” she explained.
In Scottsdale, there are strict rules regarding the use of e-bikes by minors. Children under 16 are not allowed to ride class 3 electronic bikes or similar machines on city property. This includes electric motorcycles that can reach speeds of at least 21 miles per hour. Additionally, e-motorcycles must be titled and registered.
Fortune Worrell, a Scottsdale mom, shared her perspective on this issue. She has a 13-year-old child and expressed her concerns about allowing anyone under 16 to ride such powerful vehicles. “There’s no way I would trust you on that,” she said.
Rising Injuries Among Children
Dr. Anthony Pickett, a physician at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, has observed a significant increase in injuries among children related to e-bikes and e-scooters. His trauma centers have seen a wide range of injuries, including broken bones and head trauma. “The lion’s share of these injuries are pretty severe head injuries,” he noted.
He also mentioned that children are suffering from chest and organ injuries, which are not always caused by traffic accidents. “People think it’s inherently traffic accidents, but it’s not always the case,” Dr. Pickett explained. “Unseen potholes, driving on sidewalks where there might be construction not marked well, or a dog running out can all lead to serious injuries.”
Parental Responsibility and Safety Measures
Dr. Pickett urges parents to carefully consider whether buying an e-bike for their child is a wise decision. He emphasized the importance of protective gear, particularly helmets. “It’s one thing to say wear your helmet, it’s another thing to make sure they’re wearing their helmet,” he said. “Also, obeying traffic laws is essential.”
Educational Outreach and Enforcement
To address these concerns, the Scottsdale Police Department is planning educational outreach programs for schools, parents, and businesses that sell e-bikes and e-scooters. Those caught violating the new ordinance could face fines starting at $100.
Scottsdale Police Officer Aaron Bolin stated in a statement: “This ordinance is meant to keep E-Bike and E-Motorcycle riders safe and legal. It should also help parents and legal guardians know which devices are appropriate for their kids based on their age and other traffic law requirements.”
Conclusion
As e-bikes continue to gain popularity, it is crucial for parents and communities to remain vigilant about safety. Understanding the regulations and taking necessary precautions can help prevent injuries and ensure that these vehicles are used responsibly. With ongoing efforts from local authorities and medical professionals, there is hope for a safer environment for all users of e-bikes in Scottsdale.
