Reno, Nev. – With no state law limiting electric bikes and scooters for children, local officials are taking action to protect young riders. The Reno Police Department, Northern Nevada Public Health, Renown Health and the Washoe County School District Police have formed a coalition to raise awareness about the dangers of unhelmeted riding and to promote safe practices.

Rising injuries prompt urgent response

Emergency‑room physicians report a steady stream of head‑injury cases linked to electric bikes and scooters. “If a child suffers a severe traumatic brain injury, it can be life‑threatening and may require emergency surgery, followed by weeks in intensive care and rehabilitation,” said Dr. Rima Rindler of Sierra Neurosurgery Group. Dr. Rindler sees these cases daily and consults on the most serious injuries weekly, noting that the worst cases involve young children.

Education before enforcement

Police Chief Corey Solferino emphasized the coalition’s focus on education. “We’re asking parents to get involved. Education must come before enforcement, and we want to address unsafe and illegal riding behaviors early,” he said. The partnership will distribute safety guides, hold presentations in middle and high schools, and work with parents to ensure children understand the risks.

Resources for families

The Washoe County School District has created multiple guides that outline how to ride safely, obey traffic rules and talk to children about helmet use. These guides are available on the district’s website. Local health officials also plan community workshops and outreach events to demonstrate proper helmet fitting and safe riding techniques.

Why helmets matter

Studies show that helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 %. Yet many Reno residents report that children ride without helmets, increasing the likelihood of serious brain trauma in a crash. The coalition’s message is clear: a simple helmet can be the difference between a quick recovery and a lifelong disability.

Next steps

The agencies will continue to monitor injury trends and adjust their outreach as needed. While Nevada has yet to adopt specific legislation for electric bike and scooter use by minors, the collaborative effort aims to fill that gap through community education and responsible enforcement.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to review the safety materials, attend school presentations and ensure that every child who rides an electric bike or scooter wears a properly fitted helmet.

Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.