Suffolk police issue warning about the danger of e-bikes and e-scooters
In just the last week, a North Bellmore teen was killed while riding an e-bike to school and an East Islip teen was seriously injured on Thursday when his e-bike collided with a deer.
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Suffolk police are issuing a warning about the dangers of e-bikes and e-scooters.
"It causes a danger to pedestrians. It causes danger to people driving cars. So, quite frankly, they are a menace," says Suffolk Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina.
In just the last week, a North Bellmore teen was killed while riding an e-bike to school and an East Islip teen was seriously injured on Thursday when his e-bike collided with a deer.
"This is something that could happen to any kid who is out there riding an e-bike," Catalina says.
"I see a lot of children flying down some of the busier roads," says Sayville resident Chris Robertson. "You don't want to see little kids get hurt."
Now, Suffolk police are reinforcing the rules.
"Nobody under the age of 16 is supposed to be riding an e-bike, and if somebody is riding an e-bike, they have to obey every rule of the road," Catalina says.
Suffolk police say some e-bikes and scooters are able to go between 15 to 25 mph.
"They're just too fast," Robertson says.
Officials say e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks or streets with a speed limit over 30 mph and helmets are also required.
Violators could have their e-bike or scooter impounded and the operator could be issued a summons.
"Nobody wants to see a kid injured and they're not supposed to be driving these," Catalina says.
