Parents Could Face Prison Time If Their Kids Ride Recklessly On E-Bikes: RivCo DA

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — The Riverside County District Attorney's Office is currently reviewing case law to determine who should be held responsible in e-bikes crashes when minors are involved.

Specifically, the DA is focusing on criminal liability, which could include an e-bike operator and possibly the parents or guardians of a minor.

In 2025, there have been at least 36 juvenile-related e-bike incidents in Riverside County, involving a total of 45 juveniles, according to the DA's office. The higher number of juveniles reflects incidents involving more than one youth, such as a juvenile driver with a juvenile passenger.

The DA's office reported that it pulled the crash data from Riverside County Sheriff’s Department records and observed "a significant increase in incidents involving e-bikes throughout Riverside County. These include collisions, reckless riding, and incidents resulting in serious injury to the bike operator."

The DA's office appears inclined to prosecute parents in some cases where minors are involved.

"Under California Penal Code 273a(a), a parent can be held criminally liable for child endangerment if they provide a minor with an inappropriate e-bike, fail to properly educate them on safe operation, and do not ensure they use required safety equipment — actions that place the child or others at risk of death or great bodily injury," according to the DA's office. "A felony conviction under this statute carries a maximum sentence of six years in state prison."

E-bikes can reach speeds comparable to small motorcycles, making them significantly more dangerous than standard bicycles. Riders can lose control, misjudge braking distances, or collide with vehicles or pedestrians, according to the DA's office.

When minors ride unsafely or without proper supervision, the risks can increase dramatically.

"E-bikes are not toys. Legally they are motorized vehicles," according to the DA's office. "Understanding the law now can prevent tragic, costly incidents, and possible prosecution later."

The stern warning comes as the holiday season gets into full swing and e-bikes rise to the top of many kids’ wish lists.

The DA’s office is urging parents to consider the legal and safety responsibilities that come with e- bikes. Riders must follow traffic laws, yield appropriately, maintain safe speeds, and wear proper protective gear. (Read more from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.)

"Our office’s greatest concern is that a child could cause serious injury, or even death, to themselves or others due to reckless e-bike use," said Assistant District Attorney Mike Cabral. "Parents should be aware of the risks that come with children operating these motorized vehicles."