Public Safety Announcement: E-Bike Safety

As the popularity of e-bikes continues to grow in our community, the York County Regional Police Department wants to remind riders of the importance of safety on our roads. The York County Regional Police Traffic Unit wishes to provide residents with some information and guidance concerning E-Bikes, electric scooters, mopeds, Unicycles, bicycles, etc., to help make everyone's travel and driving experience a safer one and also to allow riders be in compliance with state laws. 

 Some basic safety to keep in mind:

Always wear a properly fitted helmet and follow local helmet laws.

• Follow traffic laws and regulations, just like motor vehicles. Yes, you can get arrested for DUI on any of these devices!
• Be aware of your surroundings, including pedestrians, cars, and other cyclists. Ride Safely, not just for you, but everyone else.  
• Use hand signals to indicate turns and changes in direction.

• Keep your e-bike in good working condition, with functioning brakes and tires.

  Please refer to the included Fact Sheet from PennDot concerning these popular vehicles.

REGARDING STATE LAWS!!-

Electric in-line scooters-( two in-line wheels, handlebars, floorboard to stand on, electric motor with or without seat) Pa Vehicle Code considers these motor vehicles-MAY NOT BE OPERATED UPON ANY ROADWAY OR HIGHWAY WITHIN COMMONWEALTH, ONLY PRIVATE PROPERTY,  because they don't meet required safety requirements and therefore cannot be registered, require insurance, licensed operators etc.  

E-Bikes- Must be at least 16 yrs of age to operate on road .  Does not require a driver's license to operate.

Motorized Pedacycle (moped)- must be registered and have insurance coverage, must have Class C (normal license) if engine is less than 50cc, Class M (motorcycle license) if greater than 50cc.  

Electric Unicycle- one wheel, standing platform astride wheel- MAY NOT BE OPERATED UPON ANY ROADWAY OR HIGHWAY WITHIN COMMONWEALTH, ONLY PRIVATE PROPERTY. 

With any announcements please share this information with members of your family and younger riders/drivers.  Enjoy the warmer weather and BE SAFE.