SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Two people riding electric bicycles were injured Saturday evening in a crash with a passenger vehicle in South Scranton, according to police.
The collision happened around 5:29 p.m. June 27 at the intersection of Pittston Avenue and Cherry Street.
According to the Scranton Police Department, officers found that two e-bike riders had collided with a northbound passenger vehicle. Both riders were injured and transported by Pennsylvania Ambulance to Geisinger Community Medical Center. Police said the occupants of the vehicle were not hurt.
A preliminary investigation indicates the e-bike riders were traveling west on Cherry Street when they entered the intersection at Pittston Avenue. Witnesses told investigators the riders traveled through a posted stop sign before the crash, police said.
Both e-bikes were seized as part of the investigation. Detectives are also reviewing video evidence, including footage from a COLTS transit bus that witnessed the collision.
Police said the investigation remains active, and charges could be filed pending the completion of the investigation and review of all available evidence.
The department also said it has seen an increase in complaints involving e-bikes throughout Scranton and Lackawanna County. According to police, many incidents involve riders failing to obey traffic control devices, traveling at unsafe speeds or operating recklessly.
Police reminded riders that e-bikes are motor-assisted vehicles subject to Pennsylvania traffic laws, including stopping at stop signs and traffic signals, yielding the right-of-way when required and operating safely. Parents are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with Pennsylvania’s e-bike laws, including age requirements, classifications and where the vehicles may legally be operated.