Wilton Police Warn Residents About E-Bike Laws And Safety Amid Rising Youth Use

WILTON, CT — With electric bicycles growing in popularity, particularly among teens, the Wilton Police Department is urging parents and young riders to review safety practices and follow state laws.

In a public advisory issued Friday, police outlined several key safety and legal requirements for e-bike riders. All riders must wear helmets, and children under 16 are prohibited from using high-speed Class 3 e-bikes, which can travel up to 28 mph.

E-bikes must be outfitted with specific safety equipment, including a white front light visible from 500 feet, a rear reflector or light visible from 600 feet, and side reflectors. Riders who fail to comply with lighting requirements face a $92 fine.

Police also reminded residents that Class 3 e-bikes are not permitted on multi-use trails or bike paths. Riders must follow standard traffic rules, including keeping to the right and yielding to pedestrians on sidewalks and at crosswalks.

"Parents and guardians should carefully consider whether it’s appropriate or safe for their child to operate an e-bike capable of exceeding 20 miles per hour," the Wilton Police Department said, citing serious crashes involving juveniles in nearby communities.

In Trumbull, an electric bike driver was seriously injured after being struck by a vehicle Thursday evening, according to police. The vehicle was heavily damaged and came to rest in the roadway, and the bike operator was seriously injured.

The department emphasized the importance of parental supervision and encouraged families to review Connecticut’s e-bike laws, available via the Office of Legislative Research.

“Our top priority is the safety of our youth and the public,” the department said. “We urge all riders and families to follow the law and wear helmets on every ride.”