PHOTO BY HIMIWAY BIKES VIA UNSPLASH.COM
City officials in DeLand are considering new restrictions on electric bikes after a rise in accidents involving children and teenagers. The proposed rules would set age limits for riders, restrict where e-bikes can be used, and increase enforcement of existing safety laws.
Under the draft proposal, children under 12 would not be allowed to ride e-bikes at all, while those aged 12 to 15 could only ride on roads with speed limits below 35 miles per hour. The plan would also prohibit e-bikes on downtown sidewalks to reduce conflicts between riders and pedestrians.
Police and city officials say the changes are in response to an increase in crashes involving young riders, many of whom operate the bikes without helmets or adult supervision. Local officers report that e-bikes can reach speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour, are often faster than young riders can safely handle.
The proposed ordinance is still being reviewed, and city leaders have not finalized the details or timeline for a vote. Key points under discussion include how the city will enforce age limits, whether helmets should be required for all riders, and whether parents could face penalties for allowing minors to ride unsafely.
City leaders say their goal is not to discourage e-bike use but to make it safer. The next step will be public feedback and a final review by the city commission before any new rules take effect.
