Multiple US Cities Address Growing E-Bike Safety Concerns Amid Youth Incidents

Multiple U.S. towns and cities are grappling with safety concerns related to the growing use of e-bikes and e-scooters, particularly among young riders. In Milford, Massachusetts, police are forming a task force after receiving numerous complaints about juveniles, often under 16, abusing e-bikes by riding unsafely at high speeds and performing stunts, raising concerns about helmet safety and disabled speed limiters on e-bikes. Park Ridge, Illinois, recently saw a narrowly failed vote on an ordinance to regulate e-bike and e-scooter usage, with disagreements focusing mainly on age limits for riders. Danville, California, is actively discussing safety measures and enforcement challenges, including prohibiting e-bikes on sidewalks in commercial districts and considering education initiatives and juvenile diversion programs to reduce unsafe riding. These local efforts reflect a broader national trend as municipalities seek to balance the benefits of e-bikes and scooters with public safety concerns. Meanwhile, some advocacy groups urge greater responsibility from all road users, including drivers, to improve overall safety.