Teen E-Bike Rider Not Wearing Helmet Crashes Into Car, Hospitalized In Westfield: Police

WESTFIELD, NJ — The Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad is sharing some important safety tips following a serious e-bike crash last week.

"As first responders, we see the consequences of unsafe riding far too often. Please help us keep Westfield safe by riding smart and looking out for one another," said the Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad.

On Friday, Aug. 2, a juvenile was riding an e-bike when it hit the side of a vehicle that was previously stopped at the intersection of Boulevard before pulling onto South Avenue, said Westfield Police Lt. Michael Walsh.

The E-Bike juvenile was taken to Morristown Medical Center due to a head injury.

"Our thoughts are with the family as we wish the individual a full and speedy recovery," wrote Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad, which had responded to the crash. "This incident serves as a critical reminder to our entire community about the importance of safe riding practices - especially as e-bikes continue to grow in popularity among young riders."

"We urge all families and residents to remember the following e-bike safety guidelines:

• Helmets save lives. New Jersey law requires anyone under 17 to weart a helmet while riding a bicycle or e-bike. Regardless of age, we strongly encourage all riders to wear properly fitted, certified helmets.
• Know the laws. E-bike riders must follow the same traffic rules as other cyclists. That includes obeying traffic signals, riding in the same direction as traffic, and yielding to pedestrians.
• Be visible. Use lights and reflectors, especially when riding near dusk or in low-light conditions.
• Ride responsibly. E-bikes can reach high speeds and require the same level of caution, attention, and respect as any motorized vehicle.
• Parents: Start the conversation. Make sure your children understand the risks and responsibilities of riding an e-bike. Supervise younger riders and help them establish safe habits from the start.

Additionally, "a rapidly growing number of concerns" has prompted the Westfield Town Council to take action and ban electric scooters and bikes on all park pathways, said Mayor Shelley Brindle at the June 24 Council meeting. Read More: Westfield To Ban Electric Bikes, Scooters On Park Paths Following Rapid Number Of Concerns

The Westfield Police Department also gave a presentation at the June 18 Council meeting addressing safety measures and laws for electronic bicycles. Check out that presentation by clicking here.

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