E-Bike & Bike Safety

Bike & E-Bike Safety

Safety is our priority—because your ride matters.Kids on Bikes

Here at the Tequesta Police Department, we’re committed to keeping our community safe—whether you’re walking, driving, or riding. With the growing popularity of e-bikes, especially among our youth, education and safety awareness are more important than ever.

Our officers have been actively patrolling and engaging with the community to ensure everyone is on the same page when it comes to bike and e-bike laws. Below are some key safety tips, legal reminders, and helpful resources to keep you and your family informed.

Florida Bike & E-Bike Laws – What You Need to Know

  • Riders under 16 are required by law to wear a properly fastened helmet.

  • E-bikes must have a manufacturer label displaying its classification, top speed, and motor wattage.

  • Riders may not tamper with an e-bike to increase its speed unless the manufacturer label is updated accordingly.

  • The electric motor must disengage when pedaling stops or brakes are applied.

  • E-bikes are allowed on sidewalks, but riders must:

    • Yield to pedestrians

    • Give an audible signal when passing

    • Ride at a safe and reduced speed

  • Lights and reflectors are required for night riding.

  • In the roadway, e-bike and bike riders must:

    • Follow all traffic laws

    • Ride in the bike lane (or close to the curb) when traveling below the speed limit

    • Obey all signage and use hand signals when turning

E-Bike vs. E-Moto – Know the Difference

Not all electric-poPhoto of E-Motowered bikes are legal for sidewalks or streets. What looks like an e-bike may actually be an e-motorcycle (e-moto).

  • The photo pictured to the right is not an e-bike. This is an e-moto.

  • E-motos are NOT allowed on sidewalks or public roadways.

  • They can reach speeds over 70 MPH.

  • Always check the model classification before purchasing or riding.

Equipment Check – Stay Ride-Ready

  • Inflate and check tires before each ride

  • Ensure brakes are functioning properly

  • Make sure your bike light is visible from at least 500 feet

  • Wear bright or reflective clothing

  • Install additional reflectors for better visibility

  • Avoid riding at night when possible

Bicycle Operation Tips

  • Keep both hands on handlebars

  • Stay alert—remove earphones and watch for road hazards like potholes, gravel, debris, and animals

  • Avoid swerving or sudden movements

  • Ride with the flow of traffic

  • Use hand signals and look before turning

  • When on sidewalks, always use caution, reduce speed, and give a clear audible signal when passing others

Rules of the Road

  • Travel in bike lanes or as close to the curb as possible

  • Obey all traffic laws and signs

  • At intersections, always look and signal before turning

  • Watch for pedestrians and pets when riding on sidewalks

Free Safety Gear Available

  • Our officers are certified in helmet fitting and we offer free helmets

  • We offer free bicycle lights and safety wristbands for added visibility

📞 Call (561) 768-0505 for more information or to make an appointment

Want Us to Speak with Your Group?

We’re here to help! If you're a Tequesta resident or business owner and you'd like an officer to speak to your neighborhood, group, or organization about bike and e-bike safety—or if you need informational brochures—please contact us.

Together, we can create a safer community for everyone on the road.

📞 Tequesta Police Department – (561) 768-0505

📄 Click here to view our Bike & E-Bike Safety Brochure

📄 Click here to view our Bike & E-Bike State Law Brochure

📄 FDOT Bicycle Safety Resources