Millburn Police Are Cracking Down On Unsafe E-Bike, E-Scooter Riding

MILLBURN, NJ — Millburn police will be cracking down on “unsafe biking behavior” among e-bike and e-scooter riders, including enforcing the state’s helmet law for anyone under 17 years of age, authorities say.

The Millburn Police Department recently announced that it will be on the lookout for potentially dangerous biking behavior. Authorities reminded riders to be cautious and avoid taking risks – especially children and teens.

Watch a safety video from the MPD here.

“As a community we do not want to wait until it is too late or something truly tragic happens,” officials said.

“We all must do our part to keep our community safe for everyone that use our streets,” the advisory added. “It starts with education and awareness.”

Here are some things to keep in mind, Millburn police said:

What can drivers do?

• NEVER drive distracted. Keep your eyes on the road to be aware of other vehicles and those riding bikes, e-bikes, e-scooters or other means of e-mobility.
• Know the Safe Passing Law. Pass bikers and others using the road with a width of at least four (4) feet.
• Be prepared. Anticipate the movements of those biking or using e-mobility devices.
• Don’t speed. Drive as if your loved one is biking, walking or traveling on our community’s streets.

What can parents do?

• Speak to your children about safe riding habits and require that they wear a helmet under the age of 17.
• Understand the risks and responsibilities of owning an e-bike, e-scooter or other e-mobility device before deciding to purchase one.
• Ensure that children and adults fully understand that as a bicyclist on the road, they must adhere to all the same traffic laws as a vehicle.
• If a child rides at night, their bike should be equipped with a light or other device to make them more noticeable.

What can users of e-mobility devices do?

• WEAR A HELMET
• Know and follow traffic laws when riding on the street.
• Do not make erratic or unpredictable movements and ride on the right side of the road with the flow of traffic.
• Make yourself visible at night with reflectors, bike lights, and other devices that alert drivers to your presence.

What can Millburn police do?

• Continue to educate students and parents on the danger of e-mobility and provide safety tips at school assemblies and other community events.
• Reinforce positive bike and e-mobility behavior. The MPD will provide positive reinforcement for those riders doing the right thing, such as wearing a helmet or making safe choices while riding.
• ENFORCE. The Millburn Police Department will begin enforcing the state’s helmet law (anyone under 17 years of age) and will enforce unsafe biking behavior. While discretion will be left to the officer, particularly egregious or unsafe behavior on a bike or e-mobility bike may result in the issuance of a summons.

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