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The growing number of e-bikes on Fairfax County roads and trails is prompting renewed warnings about speed, yielding and responsible riding.

The risks came into sharp focus in late May, when Fairfax County police responded to a crash involving a vehicle and an e-bike at Cedar Lane and Electric Avenue in Dunn Loring. The adult male cyclist was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Fairfax County subsequently published guidance titled “E-Bikes Gain Speed — Here’s What to Know Sharing the Road.” The recommendations address safe speeds and how riders should yield and share public spaces as e-bike use increases.

Virginia recognizes three classes of e-bikes. Riders of Class 3 models, which provide pedal assistance at speeds of up to 28 mph, must be at least 14 years old and wear a helmet.

E-bikes are generally permitted anywhere conventional bicycles are allowed unless signs indicate otherwise, according to the county. In most locations, that includes sidewalks.

The Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling has also highlighted reports of high-speed e-bikes being operated recklessly on local trails and shared-use paths. Its safety guidance stresses responsible behavior by everyone using those spaces.

The organization notes that e-bikes can replace some car trips and make cycling accessible to people whose age or physical limitations may prevent them from riding conventional bicycles. But greater use has also been associated with more injuries.

Orthopaedic surgeon Brian R. Waterman, MD, has warned that fractures, dislocations and head injuries become more likely as e-bikes gain popularity. He said awareness, protective equipment and responsible riding provide the strongest safeguards.

E-bikes are also increasingly visible on Alexandria’s streets and trails. Handy Bikes, which sells electric and conventional bicycles there, advises riders to watch for traffic and pedestrians and to exercise care at the higher speeds e-bikes can reach.

Russell Cestone of Handy Bikes said riders who disregard the rules can give e-bikes a bad reputation. The Alexandria shop is seeing people from a wide range of backgrounds choose electric models.