National Bike Month
National Bike Month is celebrated every May. Established in 1956 by the League of American Bicyclists, it’s a time to highlight the many benefits of biking for fun, fitness, and transportation.
Locally, more children and adults are riding e-bikes and e-scooters. These electric options make it easier to travel longer distances and get around without a car. But with added speed, sometimes up to 28 mph, and power comes increased risk.
Across the country, e-bike-related injuries treated in emergency rooms have surged in recent years, more than doubling and continuing to climb. These injuries are often more severe than those from riding traditional bikes, frequently resulting in fractures, concussions, and hospitalizations similar to those seen in motor vehicle crashes. Kids and teens are especially at risk.
Here in the Tampa Bay area, the impact is concerning. Over the past five years, at least 28 people have died in e-bike crashes. Hospitals are also reporting a sharp rise in injuries. At Tampa General Hospital, just under 10 children were treated for e-bike injuries in 2024. From January to July 2025 alone, that number jumped to approximately 24. Doctors across the region are seeing severe concussions, brain injuries, and broken bones requiring surgery.
Higher speeds mean crashes happen faster and with greater force, especially when sharing busy roads in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. Younger riders may not yet have the skill or experience to handle the added power, and adults can get overconfident and underestimate the risks.
This May, during National Bike Month, let’s celebrate the joy of riding while making safety the priority. Before your family heads out, take a few moments to talk about safe riding habits, it can make all the difference.
♥ Safety Tips for Riding Smart ♥
- Wear a helmet every time. Florida law requires helmets for riders under 16, and they are strongly recommended for all ages. A properly fitted helmet greatly reduces the risk of serious head injuries.
- Start slow. Take time to learn how your e-bike or scooter operates, especially its acceleration and braking.
- Follow the rules of the road. Ride with traffic, obey signals, and use hand signals when turning.
- Be visible and predictable. Use lights (white in front, red in back), wear bright clothing, and make eye contact with drivers.
- Watch your speed. Tampa Bay roads and trails get crowded. Slow down near pedestrians, kids, and high-traffic areas.
- Check your bike before riding. Make sure brakes, tires, and components work properly.
- Avoid distractions. Put phones away and stay focused on your surroundings.
- Supervise younger riders. Make sure children have the skills and judgment needed before riding independently.
- Know local regulations. Rules for e-bikes and e-scooters can vary by city and county, check what’s allowed where you ride.
E-bikes and e-scooters can be a great addition to our community when used responsibly. They bring convenience and fun to our streets, but safety has to come first. By modeling safe habits and talking with our kids, we can help prevent injuries and keep our roads safer for everyone.
