Let’s protect our children and grandchildren with helmets AND education! Student moped and e-bike safety training needs to be mandatory, not optional.

We're at a critical juncture where the Orange County BCC could make a profound impact by sponsoring an ordinance to address the alarming situation of e-bikes and mopeds on sidewalks and bike trails. At this point they have not, but let's rally behind neighboring counties like Seminole, Volusia, Polk, Lake, Flagler, Dade, and Brevard to pioneer effective solutions to this pressing public safety concern and show Orange County how this growing public safety nightmare should be dealt with.

As of late 2025, Florida has witnessed a remarkable surge in e-bike and moped accidents, prompting a rallying cry for safety initiatives and legislative reforms. Injuries, particularly among children, are escalating, and officials are urging riders to adhere to traffic laws and wear helmets. Various stakeholders and law enforcement agencies are intensifying safety awareness and enforcing existing regulations, although the growth in e-bike usage is surpassing the development of suitable safety protocols.

Key Trends and Concerns
Rising Injuries and Deaths: Florida is experiencing a sharp increase in injuries and deaths related to e-bikes and e-scooters, with some medical facilities reporting their numbers doubling from the previous year, according to News4JAX.

Pediatric Injuries: A growing concern exists regarding children's access to these vehicles, with a significant rise in pediatric e-bike injuries, especially in Central Florida and St. Johns County.

At-Risk Road Users: Crashes involving e-bikes are more likely to involve pedestrians, and injuries tend to be more severe, including brain and orthopedic trauma.

Law Enforcement & Education: Authorities and groups like the AAA are augmenting efforts, including:

Increasing enforcement of traffic laws by law enforcement in areas with high accident rates.
Launching statewide safety campaigns, such as AAA's 'Safe Streets for Small Wheels' campaign, to encourage safe driving habits.

Distributing safety flyers and providing safety gear like helmets and lights.

#AARPVolunteer, #AARP, #growingbolder, #sheriffchitwood