A bill that would impose new safety regulations on electric bicycle riders across Florida is awaiting action from Gov. Ron DeSantis as state officials and medical professionals report a growing number of e-bike-related injuries.
Senate Bill 382, approved by the Florida Legislature earlier this year, would establish statewide safety standards for e-bike use on sidewalks and shared-use paths. If signed into law, the measure would take effect July 1.
Under the proposal, e-bike riders would be required to slow to 10 miles per hour when operating on sidewalks or pedestrian-designated areas if a pedestrian is within 50 feet. Riders would also be required to yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal before passing on shared pathways. Violations would be treated as noncriminal traffic infractions and could carry a fine of up to $30.
The legislation comes as hospitals and safety advocates report an increase in serious injuries involving e-bikes and e-scooters. According to data cited by WTSP, Florida recorded 273 e-bike-related injuries in 2025, and 2026 is on pace to exceed that total, with 343 injuries projected based on current trends.
Medical professionals have expressed concern about the severity of injuries among younger riders. Doctors at Tampa General Hospital’s Muma Children’s Hospital report treating e-bike injuries on a regular basis and say the devices can contribute to more serious trauma than traditional bicycles due to their higher speeds.
The bill would also require the Florida Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies to collect standardized data on crashes involving e-bikes. Agencies would track information such as the rider’s age, the class of e-bike involved, and whether the rider possessed a valid driver’s license. State officials would then compile the information into annual reports.
In addition, the measure would create an Electric Bicycle Safety Task Force within the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The task force would include representatives from law enforcement, local governments, the medical community, and the e-bike industry. It would be charged with reviewing crash data and recommending future safety policies to state leaders.
Supporters say the legislation is intended to improve safety for pedestrians and riders while providing the state with better information about e-bike crashes. Opponents have argued that additional regulations may be unnecessary and could place new restrictions on riders.
The bill now awaits the governor’s decision.
Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Google, & X
St. Pete-Clearwater Sun: local St. Pete-Clearwater news at PIE-Sun.com
Dad. Father. Author.
S4: Students, Schools, Social Media, & Success, and The College Merit Scholarship Appeal Guide
Owen has also contributed to The Houston Chronicle, San Francisco Gate, AOL, BAM Magazine, Boss Magazine, and Tampa Bay Business Insider.
Leave a Reply