Midway City Council Debates Stricter E-Bike Regulations Following Teen Accident
In the wake of a serious e-bike accident involving three teenage girls on August 26 on Main Street, the Midway City Council in Utah is exploring potential new restrictions to enhance safety. The accident, which resulted in hospitalization for the young riders, has intensified the council’s focus on regulating e-bike use.
“We had planned to discuss e-bike regulations before the accident occurred,” said city planner Katie Villani. “The incident, however, has accelerated the conversation.”
While the City Council does not have the authority to override existing state regulations on e-bikes, it can propose additional rules specific to Midway. This week’s discussion was aimed at guiding city staff on potential new codes without settling on a specific ordinance.
Villani highlighted that one state regulation requiring motor vehicle passengers to use designated seats could have potentially mitigated the recent accident if applied to e-bikes. She suggested that adopting a similar restriction for e-bikes could be a viable option.
“We’re seeking guidance on how to proceed,” Villani said.
Council member Jeff Drury immediately shared his suggestions, advocating for comprehensive measures to ensure safety:
- Helmet Requirement:Â Mandate helmets for all riders under 18 if the e-bike is motorized.
- Permit and License: Require a learner’s permit or driver’s license for those using motorized e-bikes on roads or connected bike paths.
- Age and Helmet Use:Â Enforce helmet use and a minimum age of 14 for motorized e-bikes on sidewalks and city paths.
Drury’s proposals received support from other council members, though Mayor Celeste Johnson expressed concerns about e-bikes on sidewalks. She stressed that e-bikes should not be used on sidewalks to avoid conflicts with pedestrians.
Councilor JC Simonsen concurred with the need for enforcement but suggested that the state’s current regulations are close to what is needed. He noted the challenge of enforcing rules and emphasized the importance of maturity and understanding the rules of the road.
Simonsen was cautious about introducing additional age restrictions similar to those in Park City, where only individuals aged 65 and older are permitted to use e-bikes on sidewalks and natural surface trails. He expressed a desire to balance safety with the enjoyment and benefits of e-bikes.
Drury pointed out that many issues arise from younger riders who lack the necessary road awareness and judgment. He highlighted the need for effective regulations to address these problems.
Councilor Craig Simmons questioned the effectiveness of speed limits, citing past instances where riders ignored speed restrictions. However, Villani suggested that speed limits could serve as a useful enforcement tool for unsafe riding behaviors.
Johnson also raised concerns about e-bikes damaging parks by going off designated trails. She emphasized the need for regulations to ensure that motorized e-bikes stay on appropriate paths.
As the City Council continues to deliberate, residents are encouraged to share their thoughts and participate in discussions to help shape the final regulations.
What are your thoughts on new e-bike regulations for Midway? Do you support stricter rules to improve safety, or do you have other suggestions? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the discussion on how to make our community safer for all riders and pedestrians!
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