AAA: More than half of adults in Michigan have seen children ride e-bikes or e-scooters without helmets
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DEARBORN – -- As e-bikes and e-scooters become more common among children and teens, AAA is reminding families that helmets remain one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious injury.
According to a recent AAA survey of Michiganders:
– 55% of adults have seen children riding e-bikes or e-scooters without a helmet
– 56% believe not enough riders wear helmets
– 78% support helmet requirements for e-bike and e-scooter riders
These findings come as health care providers across the country report a sharp rise in injuries involving young e-bike and e-scooter riders.
Why Are Doctors Concerned About E-Bike Injuries?
According to a recent medical study, injuries involving e-bikes and e-scooters among children and adolescents increased 7.5-fold between 2023 and 2026. The analysis examined more than 12,000 pediatric emergency department visits and found that more than a third of injured patients suffered head or neck injuries, while nearly 7% sustained traumatic brain injuries.
“Many parents see e-bikes and e-scooters as just another version of a bicycle, but some of these devices can reach much higher speeds," said Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "With higher speeds come greater risks. That’s why it’s so important for riders to wear a helmet that fits properly and is designed for the type of device they’re riding.”
The American College of Surgeons reports that head injuries are the most common injuries associated with e-bike crashes and notes that only about one-third of injured riders are reported to be wearing helmets. The organization recommends universal helmet use and advises matching helmet protection to the speed of the device.
What Type of Helmet Should You Wear on an E-Bike or E-Scooter?
Not all helmets are designed for the same type of riding. As device speeds increase, so does the need for additional impact protection. AAA recommends choosing a helmet that is certified for the speed and capabilities of the device being ridden.
Common helmet standards include:
– CPSC-certified bicycle helmets for traditional bicycles and lower-speed devices, generally up to 20 mph
– NTA 8776 helmets, which were developed for higher-speed e-bikes and e-scooters, generally up to 28 mph
– DOT-certified motorcycle helmets, designed for devices capable of speeds beyond 28 mph and offering additional protection, often including facial coverage
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that any helmet provides the same level of protection,” Woodland said. “The faster the device, the more important it becomes to choose a helmet designed for those speeds.”
Do You Need a Helmet to Ride an E-Bike or E-Scooter in Michigan?
Helmet requirements for e-bike and e-scooter riders differ significantly across the country. Some states require helmets for younger riders, while others have requirements based on rider age, device classification, or local ordinances.
Michigan E-Bike and E-Scooter Laws
Riders under 18 must wear a bicycle helmet that meets national safety standards
Michigan does not set a statewide minimum age for riding an e-bike, although local governments may adopt additional restrictions
E-bikes are treated like bicycles and may ride on roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks, unless locally restricted
Regardless of legal requirements, AAA recommends that all riders wear a properly fitted helmet on every ride.
What Should Parents Know About E-Bike Helmet Safety?
AAA recommends:
– Wear a helmet on every ride, regardless of distance
– Choose a helmet that is certified for the speed and capabilities of the device being ridden
– Make sure the helmet fits properly and remains securely fastened
– Replace any helmet involved in a crash
Families looking for additional information about helmet selection, rider readiness, state laws, and safe riding practices can download AAA’s free E-Ride Safety Guide. The guide was developed with input from regional trauma centers and bicycle safety organizations.