The weekly log of calls to the Bristol Police reflects the reality on our streets: underaged operators are riding e-bikes and scooters, often recklessly, and in violation of state law.

The Bristol Police Department, the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association, the Governor’s Office on Highway Safety, and medical and academic professionals are united behind one goal: improving safety and awareness around the use of these conveyances.

They are conducting a social media campaign which aims to inform parents and guardians about state laws and highlight medical trends here in Rhode Island. Safer operation is critical; helmets play an essential role in preventing injuries, but following the law remains the most important factor.

The law is clear: it is illegal for anyone under 16 to operate an e-bike or e-scooter on public roads, streets, highways, or sidewalks.
Furthermore, helmets are required for operators and passengers under 21.

Brown Health has reported a sharp increase in serious injuries related to e-bikes and e-scooters — far more severe than those seen with traditional bicycles. These include head injuries from lack of helmets, major fractures, and internal injuries from high-speed impacts. Many of the injured are young teens with no driving training and little understanding of roadway rules, leading to dangerous behavior and severe consequences.

The numbers don’t lie
Before 2022, injuries were significantly underreported due to the absence of formal tracking.

Since tracking began, over 1,200 e-bike and e-scooter–related emergency visits have occurred in Rhode Island among all age groups, with nearly 40% involving children under 18.

Injury numbers in 2025 were more than double those in 2022, reflecting higher device usage and higher speeds.

Hasbro Children’s Hospital recorded 85 visits in 2025; in just the first seven months of 2026, that number has already reached 143.

“On behalf of the Bristol Police Department, I’m asking all parents and guardians to help us keep our community’s children safe,” said Police Chief Kevin Lynch. “Please take a moment to talk with your kids about these laws and the very real dangers we are seeing every day. Your guidance, attention, and involvement make a tremendous difference. Together, we can prevent injuries and protect the young people of Bristol.”

For more information, the American Academy of Pediatrics offers an excellent resource for families: “Are Electric Bikes (E-Bikes) Safe for Kids?” (Spoiler alert: they’re not.) For more information visit HealthyChildren.org.