The Camarillo Police Department is taking a firmer stance on roadway safety following a troubling spike in traffic incidents. With e-bikes and e-scooters growing in popularity, the department’s Traffic Unit has observed a sharp rise in collisions, particularly those involving local youth. Despite several months of community outreach and school presentations, the number of accidents has continued to climb, prompting a shift from education to active enforcement.
Alarming Rise in Juvenile Involved Crashes
The statistics released by the department tell a clear story. In 2024, Camarillo recorded only two e-bike collisions. By November of 2025, that number had surged to twenty. Furthermore, the number of juveniles involved in bicycle or e-bike accidents jumped from twelve in 2024 to twenty-one through the end of 2025. These figures have mirrored a larger national trend that has seen more young riders on high speed electric bikes sharing the road with traditional vehicles.
While the police have reached over one thousand students and faculty with safety presentations this school year, the lack of improvement in the crash data suggests that more is needed. Effective immediately, the Traffic Unit and Patrol Services will begin issuing citations for violations involving bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters. Officers will be checking to ensure that riders are following the rules of the road and that their equipment is fully compliant with the California Vehicle Code.
Focus on Compliance and Safety Equipment
A major part of the new enforcement involves verifying that riders are using proper safety gear. Police will be looking for compliant helmets and bicycle lights, which are required by law. Citations issued during this period can result in fines, mandatory safety education classes, or community service. The goal is to ensure that children are riding bikes that are legal for their age group and that they understand the responsibilities that come with operating a motorized device.
Parents should be aware that popular high powered models from brands like Sur-Ron, Segway, and Talaria are subject to specific legal requirements. Additionally, electric off-road motorcycles are strictly prohibited on public roads, sidewalks, or parks. Any off-road motorcycle operated in these public spaces will be impounded. The department is encouraging parents who are considering buying an e-bike to contact the Traffic Unit with any questions regarding the legality of specific models.
Community Support and Free Resources
To help families comply with the law, the Camarillo Police Department is offering free helmets to local children in need, thanks to a donation from the Camarillo Somis Pleasant Valley Lions Club. These helmets can be picked up at the police station on Las Posas Road during regular business hours. Officials hope that by combining strict enforcement with accessible safety resources, they can reverse the dangerous trend and protect the city's youngest residents.