Teens 'Recklessly' Drive E-Bikes Through Danville, Run Red Light While Fleeing Police: DPD

DANVILLE, CA — Two juveniles drove recklessly through traffic on electric motorbikes near El Cerro Boulevard and Diablo Road last Wednesday according to the Danville Police Department. When officers tried to stop them, they fled and ran a red light before finally stopping.

The drivers were cited for reckless driving, and their bikes were towed with a 30-day hold, requiring them to pay all impound and storage fees.

Police reminded the public of electric bike and motorcycle laws in California. All electric motorcycles must be insured, registered with the DMV, and driven by a licensed driver.

The California Vehicle Code divides legal e-bikes into three classes:

• Class 1: A low-speed pedal-assisted e-bike with a motor that assists only when the the rider is pedaling, and does not go over 20 mph.
• Class 2: A low-speed throttle-assisted e-bike with a motor used exclusively to propel the bike. It is also incapable of assisting once a speed greater than 20 mph is reached.
• Class 3: A pedal-assisted e-bike with a speedometer and a motor that assists only when the the rider is pedaling. The motor stops providing assistance when a speed of 28 mph is reached.

Operators of a Class 3 electric bicycle must be 16 years or older, wear a bicycle safety helmet, and cannot transport passengers. They are allowed to ride on roads and in designated bike lanes in Danville, but not on the Iron Horse Trail. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on the Iron Horse Trail.
It is illegal in Danville to ride a bike, e-bike, electric skateboard, or electric scooter on any sidewalk in the Downtown Business District.

See here for Danville regulations for e-bikes, motorized scooters, and more, and here for state laws.

In August, following a community meeting and Town Council study session, the town of Danville launched a comprehensive e-bike safety campaign called “Not My Kid” aimed at helping families understand the rules, risks, and responsibilities of youth e-bike use. The campaign includes a website with links to online safety training provided by the California Highway Patrol and California Air Resources Board, as well as a list of all pertinent state laws. It also includes a series of videos featuring Mayor Renee Morgan in conversation with town staff about all aspects of e-bike safety.

See here for more information.

SEE ALSO:

• Danville Police Conduct 19 Stops On E-Bike Enforcement Day
• Danville Launches 'Not My Kid' E-Bike Safety Awareness Campaign