E-bike and e-scooter safety education on tap | Mercer Island Reporter

Oct 24, 2024

Following recent notifications to the Mercer Island Police Department (MIPD) regarding dangerous behavior on e-bikes and e-scooters around town, safety education for young riders has rolled into the importance realm, according to the city.

In a three-pronged effort, the city of Mercer Island, MIPD and the Mercer Island School District are partnering to help educate riders, and officers are also conducting patrols to ensure safe riding in the community.

“Responsible riding keeps us all on the road, commuting, exploring, and getting to where we want to go. Whether it’s you or your kids out there, make sure to ride responsibly, wear a helmet, and have fun,” the city said in a social media post.

E-bike and e-scooter riding has gained popularity on the Island and young riders and their parents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local laws, discuss wearing helmets while riding at high speeds and more. For more information, visit: https://www.mercerisland.gov/publicworks/page/e-bike-and-e-scooter-safety.

“Parents may also be unaware that the minimum age for many e-bikes is 16 due to their safety risks,” reads the post.

E-bikes feature pedals, are assisted by an electric motor and have a maximum speed of 20 mph (when using only electric power) or 28 mph (with the rider pedaling).

Electric motorcycles are powered by a motor and many do not have pedals; foot pegs or other brackets or supports are not considered pedals. Any e-bike that provides assistance beyond 28 mph is classified as an electric motorcycle and specific laws apply.

According to the city’s website, e-bikes reaching 20 mph can be ridden anywhere traditional bikes are permitted — including mixed-use trails, bike lanes, and roads — unless otherwise noted. E-bikes reaching 28 mph can be ridden on roads and paved trails that allow motorized vehicles but are not allowed on soft surface trails, sidewalks and shared-use paths. E-bikes cannot be ridden on trails marked as non-motorized and trails with a natural dirt surface, including the Bike Skills Area, in Pioneer Park, or anywhere where posted signs prohibit motorized vehicles.