Half dozen teens on e-bikes raise safety concerns on Cape Coral roads and sidewalks
CAPE CORAL, Fla. —
Teens were spotted on e-bikes on Chiquita Boulevard and Southwest 29th Street in Cape Coral on Sunday, reportedly weaving through traffic and riding on sidewalks.
Danielle Laffin, a Cape Coral resident who moved to the area three years ago, said she often sees teens engaging in risky behavior on the streets.
“Yes, absolutely. I see them on the sidewalks and I’ve seen them in the streets. Almost hit one,” Laffin said.
She added that while she understands the desire to have fun, there should be limits to ensure safety.
“I get it. Go out, go have fun, go explore. But do it respectfully. And try not to get yourself squashed like a bug, you know? And do it safely. You know, if you want to do wheelies and stuff, maybe find a spot, go to the BMX, you know, skate park and and do it there,” Laffin said.
Brian Johnson, owner of Bimini Bay E-Bikes and Trikes, said a new type of e-bike is being released by Juice that allows parents to monitor and control the speed of the bike, which could help address safety concerns.
“They can be a class three, a California class three, class two or class one e-bike that you can change in the settings. They also have parental controls that, you know, the parent can go in with a four digit code and put on ten miles an hour, 15 miles an hour so they can regulate as a kid learns,” Johnson said.
Florida law currently requires electric motorcycles to remain on roadways and meet all motor vehicle requirements.
DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.