E-Bike and E-Scooter Riders in NY Need to Know These Rules

Have you seen an e-bike or e-scooter around your neighborhood and wondered if they have to follow the same rules of the road that drivers do?

Increase In E-Bike and E-Scooter Crashes Across New York State

Recently, the Ulster County Sheriff's Office released a statement detailing E-Bike and E-Scooters laws riders should be following.

According to the statement there's been an increase in crashes involving e-bikes across the state.

The Ulster County Sheriff's Office writes "Throughout New York State, we are seeing an increase in crashes and incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters."

An E-Bike is a bicycle that has fully operatable pedals and an electric motor under 750 watts. There are 3 different E-Bike Classes.

E-Bike Class 1: Pedal assist only. The motor will only works when pedaling.

Class 2: Can be powered by the motor alone.

Class 3: Motor can propel the bike without peddling

Class 1 and 2 E-Bikes are limited to 20mph, while Class 3 E-Bikes are limited to 25mph.

E-Bike & E-Scooter Laws in New York State

As E-Bikes and scooters gain more popularity, it's good to keep these details in mind.

For those operating e-bikes and scooters, the Ulster County Sheriff recommends educating yourself on the "requirements and restrictions by state law."

The Ulster County Sheriff's Office gives the following breakdown of E-Bike laws explaining "Within the New York State Vehicle & Traffic Law, section 1242 sets forth the guidelines for use of e-bikes and section 1282 sets for those for e-scooters."

They add:

There are provisions set forth regarding juveniles and parents/guardians can be issued citations for allowing those under the age of 16 years old to ride both e-bikes and scooters.

Additionally, the Ulster County Sheriff's Office asks E-bike users to "adhere to the applicable laws" and also to be aware of your surroundings to make the roads "safer for everyone."