Knoxville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A new campaign in Knoxville aims to make streets safer as electric bikes and scooters grow in popularity.
AAA, the City of Knoxville, and Bike Walk Knoxville launched the “E-Ride Ready” initiative Tuesday, focusing on safety concerns tied to micromobility devices, especially among children and teens.
Officials say injuries involving e-bikes and scooters have increased significantly in recent years. A review by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found injuries rose an average of 23 percent between 2017 and 2022.
Safety leaders warn that higher speeds combined with limited riding experience are contributing to more crashes, often resulting in head injuries, broken bones and other serious trauma.
Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon shared her own experience with a scooter accident, emphasizing that these devices are not toys and should be treated with caution.
City leaders highlighted key safety guidelines, including helmet use, following speed limits, and understanding where e-bikes and scooters are allowed. Tennessee law requires helmets for riders under 16 and for certain high-speed e-bikes.
The campaign also supports Knoxville’s Vision Zero goal to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2040.
A free E-Ride Safety Guide is available through AAA to help riders better understand safe practices and equipment.
