E-Bikes, Growing Brains, and What Every RCSA Parent Should Know

Spring at River City Science Academy means one thing: everyone suddenly wants to ride to school. But this year, it’s not just regular bikes – it’s e-bikes. And if you’re a parent watching your kid zoom off at 20+ mph, you’re probably feeling… concerned.

Here’s what parents actually need to know about e-bike safety.

Why E-Bikes Are Different (And Riskier)

Here’s what most kids don’t realize: e-bikes aren’t just “faster bikes.” They’re closer to mopeds in terms of speed and impact force. The problem? Young brains aren’t wired to handle split-second decisions at 20+ mph yet.

That part of the brain that assesses risk and reacts quickly? Still under construction until about age 25. Which means your brilliant RCSA student can ace their math class but still misjudge stopping distance on an e-bike.

The E-Bike Rules That Actually Matter

Before They Ride
• Helmet is non-negotiable. And not just any helmet – a properly fitted one that actually protects.
• Know Florida law: Under 16? No e-bikes on roads with speed limits over 25 mph.
• Practice in empty parking lots first. Braking distance on e-bikes is totally different from that of regular bikes.

When They’re Riding
• No headphones. Ever. You need to hear cars, sirens, and other bikes.
• Assume every car doesn’t see you. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Speed limits exist for a reason. Just because it CAN go 20 mph doesn’t mean it should.

The Big Ones Parents Miss
• Check the battery regularly. Dead battery mid-ride = suddenly riding a very heavy regular bike.
• Lights front AND back for any riding near dusk. Spring days are longer, but still get dark.
• Know where they’re allowed to ride. Some areas prohibit e-bikes entirely.

The One Question to Ask Your Child
“What would you do if your e-bike suddenly stopped working in traffic?”
If they can’t answer confidently, they’re not ready to ride independently yet. And that’s okay.

Real Talk for RCSA Parents
E-bikes are here to stay. But the difference between a safe rider and an injured one often comes down to whether they’ve practiced the boring safety stuff.

At Baggett Law, we’ve seen too many preventable injuries. The good news? Most e-bike accidents are avoidable with the right habits and rules in place.

Here’s to a spring where the biggest bike-related crisis is a forgotten water bottle.