The "Safe Streets for Small Wheels" campaign is a new statewide effort by AAA to address the increasing use of electric bikes, scooters, and other personal mobility devices.
The initiative was inspired by a tragic accident and aims to improve road safety for everyone. For young riders and college students in Florida, this is not just a public service announcement; it is a direct call to action to understand the rules of the road and the specific policies that affect their daily commute.
This guide breaks down what the campaign means for new and experienced riders, from state law to campus-specific rules and practical safety advice.
Understanding the Campaign and What It’s All About
Florida’s Safe Streets for Small Wheels campaign is all about making roads safer for people on e-bikes, scooters, and other small rideables.
The program officially kicked off at the University of Central Florida with help from AAA, and it wasn’t just a random launch. It came after a heartbreaking accident where a 14-year-old named Hunter was hit by a car while riding his bike. His story, shared by his mom, Jodi Lynn, gave the campaign a very real, very personal reason to exist.
By starting the campaign on a college campus, the message was clear: younger riders, especially students, are a big focus. With e-bikes and scooters becoming so popular, the campaign is stepping in to promote a safety culture that hasn’t really caught up yet.
What the AAA Safety Initiative Wants to Do
The main goal here is pretty straightforward: reduce crashes and save lives. The campaign is working on educating both riders and drivers on how to share the road better.
That means teaching safe riding habits, reminding drivers to watch out for smaller vehicles, and pushing for safer infrastructure.
Instead of just relying on laws or rules, the program is about awareness and behavior, helping people make smarter, safer choices on the road.
Why Students and Young Riders Should Care
If you’ve been on a college campus lately, you’ve probably noticed how many e-bikes and scooters are zipping around. They’re affordable, eco-friendly, and super convenient for short trips between classes or getting off campus.
But with that convenience comes a new set of safety problems. Students at places like the University of North Florida have already raised concerns about close calls between fast-moving scooters and pedestrians on walkways that were never designed for this kind of traffic.
It’s a reminder that our roads and sidewalks need to evolve, and so do the habits of the people using them. That’s why universities and cities are now coming up with their own rules to make sure everyone can safely share the same spaces.
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Florida Law a Simple Guide for E-Bikes
How Florida Classifies E-Bikes
Florida state law treats e-bikes similarly to traditional bicycles, giving them the same rights and privileges while also subjecting them to the same duties.
To be considered an e-bike under state law, the device must have a motor with a maximum power of 750 watts and fully operable pedals. The state uses a three-class system to categorize e-bikes based on their speed and motor type:
Class 1: A pedal-assist only e-bike where the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling. The motor must stop assisting once the bike reaches 20 mph.
Class 2: An e-bike with both a throttle and pedal-assist. The motor can propel the bike without the rider pedaling, but it also has a maximum speed of 20 mph.
b: A high-speed, pedal-assist only e-bike. The motor provides assistance up to a maximum speed of 28 mph and must be equipped with a speedometer that clearly shows the rider's speed.
This classification system provides a clear framework for how different types of e-bikes are legally defined and where they are allowed to operate. A quick reference guide can help clarify these distinctions.
| Class | Motor Type | Max Assisted Speed | Where to Ride |
| Class 1 | Pedal-assist only | 20 mph | Roads, bike lanes, multi-use paths (unless locally prohibited) |
| Class 2 | Throttle and pedal-assist | 20 mph | Roads, bike lanes, multi-use paths (unless locally prohibited) |
| Class 3 | Pedal-assist only | 28 mph | Roads, bike lanes, multi-use paths (may be restricted on some trails） |
Licenses Registration and Legal Requirements
One big reason so many young riders like using a commuter electric bike is that it doesn’t come with a ton of legal paperwork.
In Florida, you don’t need a driver’s license, registration, or even a title to ride an e-bike. That makes it a simple and affordable choice compared to owning a car.
At the same time, skipping those legal requirements means the responsibility for riding safely falls even more on the rider.
That’s exactly what the “Safe Streets for Small Wheels” campaign is trying to highlight. If you decide to modify your e-bike so it goes faster or has more power than the law allows, it might actually get reclassified as a moped or motorcycle.
Once that happens, you’ll need to deal with licenses, registration, and insurance, just like with a regular motor vehicle.
Helmet Laws for Young Riders and Others
Helmets are one of the most important pieces of safety gear, but Florida’s laws around them aren’t the same for everyone. If you’re under 16, you’re legally required to wear a helmet when riding an e-bike.
For older riders, the rules are a little looser, though some safety groups recommend helmets for anyone on a Class 3 e-bike because of the higher speeds.
On campuses like the University of Florida, the police department even gives out free helmets and bike lights to encourage safer riding.
The smartest move is to always wear a helmet, no matter your age or bike type. A good helmet can make all the difference in preventing serious injuries, and it shows you’re taking your safety seriously.
Riding on Campus: What You Need to Know
Campus Rules You Should Know
Florida law sets the basics, but every campus can make its own rules when it comes to e-bikes and scooters. Universities have the right to create policies that fit their space and safety needs.
At the University of Central Florida, for example, you’ll find speed-regulated zones where riders have to slow down to around 8 mph in busy pedestrian areas. UCF also has a campus-wide curfew for micromobility devices from 11 PM to 5 AM to cut down on late-night accidents.
Over at the University of West Florida, you can’t ride your e-bike within 10 feet of building entrances so walkways stay clear for people on foot. These kinds of rules are meant to keep traffic flowing smoothly and prevent collisions between riders and pedestrians.
Parking and Storing Your E-Bike
Figuring out where to park or store your e-bike on campus can be tricky. At the University of Florida, you’re not allowed to bring e-bikes or other electric-powered devices inside campus buildings, including dorms.
The rule is there to prevent fire risks and make sure hallways and exits stay open. E-bikes have to be parked at official bike racks and locked properly. You can’t chain them to things like handrails, staircases, benches, or light poles.
If you do, the school can remove your bike, and they’re not responsible if it gets damaged in the process. The best move is to always find a designated rack and use a strong lock.
Gear That Keeps You Safe
Wearing a helmet is step one, but a few other pieces of gear are just as important. Florida law says you need a white front light that can be seen from 500 feet and a red rear reflector that’s visible from 600 feet if you’re riding at night or in low light.
A red rear lamp is also a smart extra. If you’re on a Class 3 e-bike, you need a speedometer to make sure you know how fast you’re going. Beyond the basics, bright or reflective clothing makes you easier to see, especially after dark.
Rules of the Road
When you’re riding on public roads, your e-bike is treated like any other vehicle. That means riding with traffic, obeying stoplights and signs, and using hand signals when you turn or stop.
On sidewalks or shared paths, you need to yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal when you’re passing someone.
Florida law also considers e-bike riders “vulnerable road users,” which means cars have to give you at least three feet of space when passing. Riding predictably and being courteous helps keep everyone safe.
Easy Maintenance Tips
Keeping your e-bike in good shape is one of the easiest ways to stay safe. Check your tires, brakes, and battery regularly so you don’t run into problems while riding.
Florida law requires your brakes to be strong enough to stop you within 25 feet from a speed of 10 mph on dry pavement.
To stay on top of that, check tire pressure often, replace brake pads when they wear down, and make sure your battery is fully charged and damage-free.
A little regular maintenance goes a long way in making your rides safer and smoother.
The Future of E-Biking in Florida
Why Local Rules Can Be Different
Florida’s Safe Streets for Small Wheels campaign is sending out one big, clear message about safety. But when it comes to the actual rules you’ll deal with as a rider, things can look a little messy.
Local governments have the power to make their own ordinances, which means what’s allowed in one city might not fly in another. That patchwork of rules can be confusing and sometimes frustrating.
It can even cause people to accidentally break the law or ride unsafely without realizing it. The best thing you can do is always check the local regulations before taking your e-bike into a new area.
The Role of Advocacy Groups and Public Opinion
This campaign is just one piece of a bigger push to make communities across Florida safer and more bike-friendly.
Advocacy groups like the Florida Bicycle Association and PeopleForBikes are out there every day working on better bike lanes, smarter policies, and stronger education. Public opinion is also playing a huge role.
On campuses like UNF, students have been voicing their worries about e-bikes and scooters moving too fast around pedestrians. Those conversations are helping drive real change.
When local residents, schools, advocacy groups, and government agencies work together, e-bikes and other small mobility devices can truly become a safe, reliable way to get around.
FAQs
Do I need a license or registration for my e-bike in Florida?
No, a driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance are not required to operate a legal e-bike in Florida.
Are helmets required for all e-bike riders, regardless of age?
Helmets are legally required for anyone riding an e-bike who is under the age of 16. While not legally mandated for adults, they are strongly recommended for all riders, especially on Class 3 e-bikes.
What is the difference between a Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bike?
A Class 1 e-bike is pedal-assist only with a top speed of 20 mph. A Class 2 e-bike has a throttle and a top speed of 20 mph. A Class 3 e-bike is pedal-assist only with a top speed of 28 mph.
Can I ride my e-bike on sidewalks or bike paths?
Yes, in most of Florida, e-bikes can be ridden on any road, path, or way open to bicycle travel, including bike lanes and multi-use paths. However, local ordinances in certain cities may prohibit riding e-bikes on sidewalks.
What happens if I modify my e-bike to go faster than the law allows?
If an e-bike is modified to exceed the legal speed or power limits, it may be reclassified as a moped or motorcycle. This would make it subject to different laws that could require a license, registration, and insurance.
