2 Teens Hurt In E-Bike Crash: Petaluma Police

PETALUMA, CA — Two teens were injured in an electric bicycle crash recently in Petaluma, according to police.

Three teens with two gas-powered dirt bikes and a high-speed e-bike were filming stunts on Garfield Drive when they attempted a wheelie with the e-bike, which was carrying two riders, and it hit a parked truck, police said.

Both riders were taken to Petaluma Valley Hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening and all three teens were cited for operating vehicles without a license or insurance, according to police.

“This incident could have resulted in more serious injuries or even fatalities,” Petaluma police said in a social media post. “Reckless riding endangers not only the riders themselves but also pedestrians, drivers, and community members.”

Police offered the following tips on e-bike safety:

• One rider per e-bike unless it’s made for passengers;
• Off-road bikes are illegal on city streets and sidewalks;
• High-powered e-bike riders must be licensed, insured and follow traffic laws;
• Helmets are required for those under 18 and are recommended for all;
• Stunts on public roads are illegal and dangerous.

“Motorized bikes aren’t toys — they carry real risks,” police said. “We encourage all riders (and parents!) to understand the laws, invest in proper safety gear, and make safe choices.”