An ebike safety contract is key for establishing clear expectations and guidelines for your teenager's responsible use of their ebike.
When it comes to ebikes, safety is a top priority: Making sure they don't hurt themselves or anyone else.
An ebike safety contract outlines your family's specific rules for following traffic laws, speed limits, safety equipment, permissible hours for use, communication expectations, and more. And perhaps more importantly, this type of contract fosters open communication between you and your teenager.
By jointly acknowledging and signing this contract, you and your child actively commit to a shared understanding of safe ebike practices, promoting a secure and enjoyable riding experience for everyone involved.
EBIKE SAFETY CONTRACT
This Electric Bike Safety Contract ("Contract") is entered into on [Date], by and between [Parent/Guardian Name], hereinafter referred to as the "Parent," and [Teenager's Name], hereinafter referred to as the "Teenager."
WHEREAS, the Parent has granted the Teenager permission to operate an electric bike (hereinafter referred to as "ebike") under certain conditions.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and covenants contained herein, the Parent and the Teenager agree as follows:
I. General Guidelines
Operating Hours:
The Teenager agrees to operate the ebike only between the hours of [Start Time] and [End Time] unless the Parent grants explicit permission for extended use.
Location Restrictions:
The Teenager shall operate the ebike only on designated bike paths, roads, and other permissible areas. Riding on highways and busy streets is strictly prohibited unless accompanied by an adult.
The Teenager will stay within the following zones unless the Parent gives advance permission to drive beyond these boundaries.
- [City or Town Name]
- [Between Main Street and Broadway]
- [1.5 miles of house address]
- [To school, tutoring, baseball practice, grandma’s house, etc.]
II. Speed and Riding Behavior
Maximum Speed:
The Teenager agrees not to exceed a maximum speed of [20] mph when operating the ebike.
Traffic Rules:
The Teenager shall adhere to all traffic laws, road signs, signals, markings on the road, right-of-way rules, and speed limits as learned in their PedalAce online ebike safety course, Ebiking Rules! Failure to obey traffic rules may result in the suspension of the Teenager’s ebike privileges.
Hand Signals:
The Teenager shall use hand signals when turning, changing lanes, slowing, or stopping.
Drive With Traffic:
The Teenager will always drive with traffic and never against traffic.
Passengers:
The Teenager shall [never allow a passenger to ride with them on their ebike because their ebike does not have a designated second seat] <or> [will let only one passenger ride with them because their ebike has just one designated passenger seat. This passenger will wear a helmet and not distract the Teenager while the Teenager is driving].
III. Safety Equipment
Helmet Requirement:
The Teenager shall always wear a properly fitted and securely fastened helmet while operating the ebike.
Reflectors and Lights:
The Teenager’s ebike must be equipped with functional reflectors and lights for increased visibility during low-light conditions.
The Teenager will turn on their headlamp and taillights 30 minutes before sunset and leave them on until the sun is fully up in the morning.
IV. Maintenance and Inspection
Regular Maintenance:
The Teenager, with assistance from the Parent, agrees to ensure regular maintenance of the ebike, including brake checks every time they begin driving their ebike, tire inspections, battery inspections, and overall safety assessments.
Prompt Reporting:
The Teenager will promptly report any malfunctions or damage to the ebike to the Parent. The Teenager shall only operate the ebike once the Parent gives the go-ahead or the necessary repairs have been made.
V. Responsible Riding
No Reckless Driving:
The Teenager agrees not to engage in reckless riding behaviors, such as stunt riding, weaving in and out of traffic, racing, or any actions that could endanger themselves or others.
No Driving Under the Influence:
The Teenager shall not operate the ebike under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substances that impair judgment or coordination.
No Driving in Bad Weather:
The Teenager will not drive on wet or slippery roads or in high winds. If bad weather begins while the Teenager is operating their ebike, the Teenager will stop driving immediately and call their Parent or another trusted adult.
VI. Communication and Accountability
Communication:
The Teenager agrees to inform the Parent of their intended destination and estimated return time before embarking on any ebike ride.
Check-In:
The Teenager shall check in with the Parent at agreed-upon intervals during extended rides to confirm their well-being.
Accidents or Collisions:
In the event of an accident or collision, the Teenager will follow the accident guidelines provided in their PedalAce online ebike safety course, Ebiking Rules!
Under no circumstances will the Teenager attempt to hide any accident, collision, fall, or similar from the Parent.
VII. Consequences for Violation
Violation Consequences:
In the event of a violation of any terms outlined in this Contract, the Parent reserves the right to revoke ebike privileges temporarily or permanently, depending on the severity of the violation.
VIII. Signatures
This Contract is a mutual agreement between the Parent and the Teenager to promote responsible and safe ebike operation. Both parties should thoroughly understand and adhere to the terms outlined herein to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parent and the Teenager have executed this Electric Bike Safety Contract as of the date first above written.
Parent/Guardian Name: ________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: _____________________
Date: ____________________
Teenager Name: _____________________________
Teenager Signature: _________________________
Date: ____________________