CA: SCHOOLS UPPING STUDENT E-BIKE SAFETY TRAINING
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SANTA CRUZ, California (KSBW) — Students at Branciforte and Mission Hill middle schools in Santa Cruz are now required to complete a safety training program to obtain a permit for parking their e-bikes on campus.
The process, similar to obtaining a driver’s permit, involves a three-part course offered through Santa Cruz City Schools. The first part covers e-bike and road laws, the second includes a skills course, and the final part is a supervised group ride to practice real-world riding.
“E-biking is an outstanding way to get around town, but we’re all really familiar with the risks,” said Scott Bronson, a parent.
Wesley Bronson, a student who participated in the program, shared his experience. “There was a lot of sharp turning that I think I will find very useful later in life,” he said.
Another student added, “We worked on braking. Like, going really fast. Going really slow, and, like, seeing how much like you slide. Yeah. Like different speeds.”
Unlike drivers, middle schoolers are not typically taught the rules of the road. This free program, developed by the City of Santa Cruz, Ecology Action, and Santa Cruz Police Department, aims to fill that gap and prepare students for riding in traffic.
“With the increase in bike accidents, especially with e-bike accidents, we thought we could be part of the solution,” said Casey O’Brien of the California Highway Patrol.
The program also educates students on the capabilities of e-bikes. “This program teaches kids on how fast you can go. For example, a level one. Level two can go up to 20 miles an hour. It’s important to wear a helmet. It’s important to obey traffic laws. It’s very important to stop at stop signs,” said Israel Murillo, a CHP representative.
Both Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, which are capped at 20 miles per hour, qualify for the program. Class 3 e-bikes, which can reach speeds of up to 28 miles per hour and are only for riders 16 and older, are not allowed on campus.
“I feel like that was a good lesson. And a lot of people should know,” said Wesley Bronson.
The district reports that the program attracts an average of 16 students per session and has been well-received by parents. Additional courses are planned for the future.
Statewide, new e-bike safety measures have also been introduced this year, including battery and electrical safety standards, speed requirements, and increased enforcement against modifications that can turn e-bikes into mopeds.
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