Newtown Police Issue Guidance On Electric Bikes, Scooters

Press release from the Township of Newtown:

In 2025, municipalities all over Delaware County have seen a sharp rise in the use of micromobility transportation. These modes of transportation include Electric Scooters, E-Bikes and similar devices. While these modes of transportation appear to be a convenient and cost-effective choice for commuters, there are some serious considerations for Pennsylvania residents that need to be addressed.

Electric Scooters are only legally allowed to be ridden on private property in Pennsylvania. This means riding on public roadways, highways and sidewalks is not legally permitted under the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code.

E-Bikes that are capable of speeds of up to 20 miles per hour and require the use of pedal assist may be operated without a license, but the operator must be a minimum of 16 years old.

Motorized Pedacycles, the kind that have a throttle and can be ridden without the use of pedals, require a class C driver’s license, registration and insurance to be ridden.

These micromobility vehicles are being used unlawfully by adults and children throughout Delaware County and have led to serious injury and even fatal accidents, resulting in legislation being introduced in Harrisburg called "Abby’s Law," calling for more strict age and helmet regulations for scooters and bicycles in Pennsylvania. Laws implicated with such operation include operating unauthorized vehicles, allowing the operation of an unauthorized vehicle by a minor, operating a vehicle without a license, and lack of required insurance.

The Newtown Township Police Department urges residents and parents to educate themselves on the legality of these modes of transportation, as the state sees a more than 20 percent annual increase in juveniles injured on micromobility vehicles over the last four years. The safety of our residents, and particularly the children of Newtown Township, is paramount.

Enforcement efforts to reduce the number of accidents involving juveniles on electric scooters and E-bikes is currently in effect, but it is also incumbent upon parents to recognize if they have supplied their child with a mode of transportation that is not only illegal, but more dangerous than they think.

Residents should be aware that significant fines and penalties may be incurred by adults and parents/children for violations of these statutes, including monetary fines with associated fees and costs, into the hundreds of dollars, and significant delays in obtaining permits and drivers’ licenses for children. In addition, should someone be injured as a result of the illegal operation of such a vehicle, substantial civil liability could be incurred by the driver and/or parent of the minor driver.

This press release was produced by the Township of Newtown. The views expressed here are the author’s own.