A growing number of young locals have been seen riding their e-bikes dangerously on sidewalks, bicycle paths, and roads. As part of the changes, 20 mph speed limits will be enforced on bicycle paths and trails, and a 10 mph limit on sidewalks.
Sidewalk speed limits would drop further to 5 mph when children are present in school zones. The city council has voted 6-1 in favor of new restrictions targeting e-bikes and scooter use, with stricter penalties for modifying e-bikes to exceed legal speed limits and expanded powers for local police to impound vehicles.
Repeat offenders may soon find themselves facing fines of up to $500, particularly for riders caught flouting the new rules multiple times. Local officials also want to increase accountability among parents, especially those who knowingly allow their children to ride in violation of city ordinances.
The move comes as cities across the country struggle to respond to a rise in reckless e-bike riding, with powerful e-bikes becoming increasingly popular among young riders. In Irvine, 70 percent of bicycle collisions have involved a juvenile rider, and 65 percent of them have involved an e-bike.
Authorities are now considering stricter measures to crack down on reckless riders and promote safer e-bike use. The new restrictions aim to reduce the risk of accidents and promote a culture of safety among young riders.
By enforcing stricter rules and increasing accountability among parents, Irvine hopes to create a safer environment for all road users.
As cities struggle to balance the benefits of e-bikes with the need for safety, it's clear that education and enforcement are key to promoting responsible e-bike use. By targeting repeat offenders and holding parents accountable, cities can help reduce the risk of accidents and promote a culture of safety among young riders.
