E-Bike Safety, Virtual Q&A To Be Hosted By Summit Police

SUMMIT, NJ — Police in Summit are addressing the growing popularity in Union County of electronic bikes (e-bikes), scooters, and small electric motorcycles with a virtual chat Wednesday night.

At 7 p.m., the City of Summit's Facebook page is hosting a live question-and-answer session with Summit Police Officer Dave Kotiga and Program Manager of the New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition, Paul Mickiewicz. The event will cover regulations, laws, and safe practices for those using or sharing the roads with riders.

A number of recent crashes in the Garden State have involved at least one electronic vehicle.

On Sept. 24, a 13-year-old boy was killed by the driver of a landscaping truck while riding an e-bike at an intersection in Scotch Plains. That same day, a 12-year-old from Parsippany was taken to the hospital after he was hit by a car while riding an electric scooter.

E-bikes must have pedals, otherwise, it is considered a motorcycle. This means the driver must have registration, insurance, and a license.

Class 2 e-bikes are considered machines with assisted pedaling and use a throttle. These have a top speed of 20 miles per hour and are legal without registration or insurance.

Anyone riding under 17 years old must wear a helmet.

Class 3 e-bikes can reach 28 miles per hour, and can only be ridden by individuals ages 15 and older. A driver's license is required, and a helmet must be worn.

The e-bike must also be registered and insured.

Reckless driving or trying to flee from law enforcement can result in summonses, impounds, and court appearances.

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