Greetings: I hope that all are enjoying summer 2026. The Mt. Pleasant Police Department wishes all a happy and safe summer. To help keep everyone safe, please allow me the opportunity to pass along some information to help accomplish this goal. Over the last few years, there has been a tremendous increase in the usage of e- bikes and e-scooters. Some use this newer mode of transportation for recreation and others travel to and from work or school. This proliferation has created a concern over safety. On Thursday, May 28, 2026, two adult males riding in opposite directions on the bike path of the Queensboro Bridge in New York City were involved in a head on collision. One operator was operating a bicycle and the other was on an e-scooter. Both men did not survive. There have been numerous other incidents involving serious injuries and death involving operators under 16 years of age in New York. Trauma centers and emergency departments are reporting a substantial increase in e-bike and micro mobility related injuries. These crashes are not just occurring in New York State, they are happening across the country. There are two ways to assist in lowering the number of injuries and incidents. Education and enforcement are the keys to keeping the public safe. The Command Staff and I recently received training and we have passed this training down to the patrol officers. We believe that it is important for adults, parents, and children to understand the laws and rules for e-bikes and micro mobility devices. Here are some basics from the New York State Motor Vehicle law regarding e-bikes and e-scooters: You must be 16 years of age to legally operate an e- bike or e- scooter. You cannot operate an e- bike or e- scooter on the sidewalk. You may only operate an e-bike or e- scooter on highways with a posted speed limit of 30 mph. or less. E- bikes and e- scooters must have a label that indicates the motor wattage and the maximum motor assisted speed. The following are some basic tips and additional information: If it does not have pedals, it is not an e-bike. It is an electric motorcycle. Helmets are mandated for operators 16 and 17 years old for e-scooters, but not for e- bikes. We strongly recommend wearing a helmet. The Town is exploring local legislation to mandate helmets for all operators of e- bikes and e- scooters. Please review the E-Bikes & E-Scooters Law Quick Guide (PDF) and the New Riders E-Bikes & E-Scooters Quick Guide (PDF) from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. Please follow the rules of the road and be safe. Regards, Chief Oliva