Sheriff’s Department Announces Targeted Enforcement and Education Surrounding E-Bikes.

Sheriff Jeffrey R. Brown announced today that the Sheriff’s Office will begin a targeted education campaign surrounding electric scooters and bicycles with electric assist – also known as “E-Scooters” and “E-Bikes.” 

“In many cases, people who ride these devices simply don’t know the law,” Brown said. “First and foremost, we want to make sure our citizens are safe while at the same time respecting the rights of other people using the roadways with them.” 

Some key points pertaining to class one and class two E-Bikes and E-Scooters: 

• No person less than 16 years of age may operate an E-Bike or E-Scooter. 

• Helmets are required for riders aged 16 and 17. 

• These devices are only lawful to use on highways with a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less. 

• E-Bikes may not travel faster than 20 mph. 

• E-Scooters may not travel faster than 15 mph. 

• E-Bikes and E-Scooters may not be operated on sidewalks except as authorized by local law or ordinance. 

• All E-Bikes must be 36” wide or less, have an electric motor of no more than 750 watts and be equipped with operable pedals. 

• No operation on public lands except where posted for such travel. 

• Municipalities can further regulate the time, place and manner of operation of these devices. 

• E-bikes and E-Scooters are granted all of the rights and are subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a motor vehicle and the rider of a bicycle. 

• A parent may be issued a traffic summons under certain circumstances for a person less than 16 years of age operating these devices. 

• Operation in violation of the laws may result in civil or criminal liability to parents of minor riders. 

•Operation in violation of the laws may result in civil or criminal liability to parents of minor riders.

Many of the complaints brought to the Office’s attention involve so-called E-Dirt Bikes which are classified as off-highway motorcycles under New York law. They are not legal on public roads, sidewalks, bike paths or parks unless fully registered, insured and otherwise street legal. Most recreational models do not meet these requirements. 

“We will be out there educating our communities and enforcing where necessary,” Brown said. “I also want to make it clear that parents need to be aware of what their minor children are operating and the way they are doing so. I can’t emphasize it enough – these are not toys, and incorrect usage of them can result in very serious consequences.”