The Huntington Beach Police Department has launched the nation’s first police-led e-bike safety program in response to a worrying increase in e-bike crashes. In 2024, the city reported 147 e-bike collisions, more than double the number from two years earlier, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. The program aims to educate young riders and their parents about safe e-bike operation.
In a press release, the department announced the free course, held at Spring View Middle School, includes hands-on training in emergency braking, obstacle navigation, and helmet use. Huntington Beach Police Sgt. Mike Thomas developed the curriculum, which is based on a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified 40-hour training. Police Chief Eric Parra emphasized the importance of experiential learning, stating, “When you show them physically how 20 miles an hour is so much different than 10, then they start to realize.”
The initiative comes amid growing concerns over e-bike safety, particularly among children. Many crashes involve untrained and underage riders, with over half not wearing helmets. Amy Frias from the Children’s Hospital of Orange County highlighted the severity of injuries, comparing them to car crash trauma.
The Huntington Beach Union High School District is considering adopting the program district-wide, potentially making it mandatory for students who ride e-bikes to school. More safety events are planned throughout the summer, including additional training sessions and helmet fittings, according to city officials.
For more information about the POST-certified course or HBPD’s Student E-Bike Safety Program events, contact Sgt. Mike Thomas at mthomas@hbpd.org.
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