Have you seen an e-bike or e-scooter around your neighborhood and wondered if they have to follow the same rules of the road that drivers do?
Increase In E-Bike and E-Scooter Crashes Across New York State
Recently, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office released a statement detailing E-Bike and E-Scooters laws riders should be following.
According to the statement there’s been an increase in crashes involving e-bikes across the state.
The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office writes “Throughout New York State, we are seeing an increase in crashes and incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters.”
An E-Bike is a bicycle that has fully operatable pedals and an electric motor under 750 watts. There are 3 different E-Bike Classes.
E-Bike Class 1: Pedal assist only. The motor will only works when pedaling.
Class 2: Can be powered by the motor alone.
Class 3: Motor can propel the bike without peddling
Class 1 and 2 E-Bikes are limited to 20mph, while Class 3 E-Bikes are limited to 25mph.
E-Bike & E-Scooter Laws in New York State
As E-Bikes and scooters gain more popularity, it’s good to keep these details in mind.
For those operating e-bikes and scooters, the Ulster County Sheriff recommends educating yourself on the “requirements and restrictions by state law.”
The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office gives the following breakdown of E-Bike laws explaining “Within the New York State Vehicle & Traffic Law, section 1242 sets forth the guidelines for use of e-bikes and section 1282 sets for those for e-scooters.”
They add:
There are provisions set forth regarding juveniles and parents/guardians can be issued citations for allowing those under the age of 16 years old to ride both e-bikes and scooters.
Additionally, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office asks E-bike users to “adhere to the applicable laws” and also to be aware of your surroundings to make the roads “safer for everyone.”
More E-Bike Rules and Regulations in New York State
Take a look at all the rules and regulations when it comes to E-Bikes and scooters in New York State:
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Gallery Credit: Dan McGuire