With e-bikes rapidly increasing in popularity, concerns are growing about their safe operation, especially when used by minors. Similar concerns apply to other high-powered vehicles like golf carts. These safety risks are contributing to a shift in criminal enforcement, with recent cases holding parents accountable for their children’s actions.

Two recent cases in Orange County highlight the issue:

• July 2025: A 12-year-old drove a modified e-bike into an intersection against a red light. He was hit by a car, suffering severe injuries. Investigators determined his father had helped modify the e-bike, allowing it to reach speeds up to 60 MPH. The father was charged with felony child endangerment.
• April 2026: A 14-year-old operating an e-motorcycle capable of reaching speeds over 50 MPH hit an 81-year-old pedestrian. The pedestrian suffered critical injuries, and the teen left the scene. Investigators found the teen’s mother had bought him the e-motorcycle and had previously been warned by law enforcement that it was illegal for him to operate it. She was charged with felony child endangerment and several other crimes.

This issue goes beyond just e-bikes and e-motorcycles. Minors are being allowed to operate higher-powered vehicles such as golf carts, ATVs, and other unregistered motor vehicles. Under California law, once a vehicle exceeds certain speed or design thresholds, it is classified as a motor vehicle or motorcycle. That classification carries legal requirements, including a valid driver’s license, proper equipment, and lawful operation on approved roadways. As a reminder, golf carts and other unregistered vehicles are not allowed on roads in Bear Valley Springs except in special circumstances.

Allowing a minor to operate these vehicles outside legal limits is not only dangerous, but it also creates significant legal liabilities.

Parents and guardians can be held accountable when they permit unsafe or unlawful vehicle operation by minors. This may include criminal charges when those actions create a foreseeable risk of harm.

The Bear Valley Police Department’s goal is prevention. Make sure you understand the rules and consequences of minors operating these vehicles. Taking proactive steps can help protect your children, yourself, and our community.