The rapid growth of electric bicycles has transformed urban transportation across the United States. E-bikes offer convenience, affordability, and a cleaner alternative to cars. However, a new study presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting 2026 reveals a concerning trend. Injuries among children and teenagers linked to e-bike use have surged by more than 300 percent in recent years.
Researchers say the findings highlight the urgent need for better safety awareness, improved regulations, and stronger community education programs. As micromobility devices continue to gain popularity, protecting young riders has become a growing public health priority.
Electric bicycles are now one of the fastest growing segments of the micromobility market. Riders appreciate their ability to travel faster and farther than traditional bicycles with less effort. Many models can reach speeds of up to 28 miles per hour.
Because most regions do not require a driver’s license to operate an e-bike, young riders often gain access to these devices with little formal training. This combination of higher speeds and inexperienced riders increases the likelihood of serious accidents.
A research team from American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons presented new findings showing a dramatic rise in orthopaedic injuries among young riders. The study examined trauma cases involving e-bikes and pedal bikes treated at a pediatric Level 1 trauma center in San Diego.
According to the data, accidents involving children and adolescents riding e-bikes increased sharply between 2019 and 2023. During that period, the number of youth injuries linked to e-bikes rose by more than 300 percent.
The research titled “E-Bike Orthopaedic Injuries Among Pediatric and Adolescent Patients at a Level 1 Trauma Center” analyzed trauma cases from 2017 through 2023. The study included 338 patients under the age of 18 who were involved in bicycle related accidents.
Researchers compared injuries sustained by riders of electric bicycles and traditional pedal bikes. The goal was to understand how the rapid adoption of e-bikes is affecting injury patterns in younger populations.
Patients were grouped based on the type of bike involved in the accident. The team evaluated multiple factors including:
By examining these variables, the study aimed to identify risk factors that could guide future prevention strategies.
One of the most striking findings involved the rapid increase in trauma cases linked to e-bikes. In 2017, only 2 percent of bicycle related trauma activations at the hospital involved electric bicycles. By 2023, that number had risen dramatically to 64 percent.
This shift reflects the growing presence of e-bikes in communities. As more families adopt these devices for transportation and recreation, the risk of injuries naturally increases.
However, the severity of injuries associated with e-bikes also appears to be higher than those seen in traditional bicycle accidents.
The study found that young riders involved in e-bike accidents were significantly more likely to suffer orthopaedic injuries affecting the arms or legs.
Researchers reported that e-bike crashes produced:
On average, children injured in e-bike crashes sustained about three times as many fractures as those involved in traditional bicycle accidents.
Orthopaedic injuries can require extensive medical care. Many cases involve surgery, hospital stays, and months of physical rehabilitation.
This level of trauma places additional pressure on healthcare systems while also affecting the long term well being of young patients.
Another key finding involved the age of injured riders.
Children involved in e-bike accidents were generally older than those riding traditional bicycles. The average age of injured e-bike riders was about 12.6 years, compared with 10.3 years for pedal bike accidents.
This difference may reflect the fact that older children and teenagers are more likely to ride electric bicycles, especially for commuting to school or social activities.
Researchers also noted socioeconomic differences between the two groups. Youth involved in e-bike accidents tended to come from more economically advantaged neighborhoods compared with those injured while riding traditional bicycles.
Helmet use varied between the two groups of riders.
Children riding traditional bicycles were less likely to wear helmets. As a result, they experienced higher rates of head injuries compared with e-bike riders.
Even so, researchers stress that helmets remain essential for all riders regardless of the type of bicycle. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious head trauma in crashes.
Experts recommend properly fitted helmets for both electric and traditional bicycle users.
Several factors contribute to the higher injury severity associated with e-bike crashes.
First, electric bicycles can reach significantly higher speeds than pedal bikes. Increased speed raises the force of impact during collisions.
Second, young riders may lack experience controlling these vehicles, especially when navigating traffic or crowded bike paths.
Third, e-bikes are heavier than traditional bicycles. This added weight can affect braking distance and maneuverability, increasing the chance of losing control.
When these factors combine, accidents can lead to more serious orthopaedic trauma.
Micromobility devices such as e-bikes, scooters, and other electric vehicles are expected to expand rapidly in the coming years.
Experts at the orthopaedic conference emphasized the importance of addressing safety concerns early as these technologies become more common.
Possible strategies discussed by researchers include:
Community level collaboration will be essential to reduce injuries. Schools, healthcare providers, parents, and policymakers all play important roles in improving safety.
Experts recommend several simple steps to reduce the risk of e-bike injuries among youth.
1. Always wear a helmet
A properly fitted helmet can dramatically reduce the risk of head injuries.
2. Understand the bike’s speed and power
Young riders should practice handling their e-bike in safe environments before riding on busy roads.
3. Follow traffic rules
E-bike riders should obey the same traffic laws as other cyclists and vehicles.
4. Avoid distractions
Using mobile phones or headphones while riding increases accident risk.
5. Ride in safe areas
Bike lanes and designated cycling paths provide safer environments than crowded streets.
These precautions can help reduce injury risks while allowing riders to enjoy the benefits of micromobility.
The findings presented at the orthopaedic conference highlight a critical issue facing communities across the country. E-bikes offer many advantages for transportation and sustainability, but their growing popularity also introduces new safety challenges.
Without proper education and safety measures, young riders may face a higher risk of serious injuries.
Researchers hope that increased awareness will encourage policymakers, healthcare providers, and families to develop strategies that protect youth while supporting the continued growth of micromobility.
Electric bicycles are reshaping how people move through cities and neighborhoods. For young riders, these devices offer freedom and convenience. Yet the surge in injuries among children and teenagers shows that safety must remain a priority.
The research presented at the 2026 orthopaedic conference provides valuable insight into how e-bike accidents affect young patients. By combining education, regulation, and responsible riding habits, communities can help reduce the growing number of injuries while still embracing the future of micromobility transportation.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting 2026 titled “E-Bike Orthopaedic Injuries Among Pediatric and Adolescent Patients at a Level 1 Trauma Center.”
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It summarizes research findings presented at a medical conference and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment guidance. Readers should consult qualified healthcare professionals for medical concerns or safety recommendations related to e-bike use.
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