Text · page 7 of 90
This document was a scan. Its text was produced by character recognition and may contain errors; check the original for exact wording.
@ E-scooter riders ages 16 and 17 must wear a properly fitted and secured helmet. For riders 18+, NYS law does not require a helmet—but wearing one is strongly recommended. §1286 @ Local laws may impose additional restrictions. §1242(3), §1281(2) All citations above refer to New York State Vehicle & Traffic Law that is already in effect. I asked my staff to stmplify the legal language so that it still accurately reflects state law, while being more readily understandable for residents. (I didn’t know the law a year ago when I made the awful mistake of purchasing an e-bike for my underage son. In dozens of conversations since then, I have learned that many people still don’t know the law! ) MODEL LOCAL REGULATIONS A number of Erie County towns and villages have already stepped up to adopt local regulations. I urge every municipality that has not already done so to consider as a starting point the following regulations, based on laws that have already taken effect in Alden, Clarence, East Aurora, Grand Island, Orchard Park, and Williamsville: e Ahelmet is required for every operator of an e-bike or e-scooter during use. @ No e-bikes or e-scooters are permitted on public sidewalks. e.. E-bikes or e-scooters operated. after sunset must have. appropriate lighting /reflective equipment. * Police have the authority to seize an’é*bike or e-scooter used in vidlGfion and hold it pending the, investigation and/or prosecution. I’m including at the end of this letter sample language from the Town of Orchard Park as a starting point for your consideration. OTHER SUGGESTIONS With any public health challenge, laws and rules are only part of the solution. e Discuss what steps your community is currently taking to educate your residents—children, parents, motorists, and pedestrians—about these increasingly popular vehicles that may look like bicycles but that can accelerate (and crash) like motorcycles. @ Urge parents to check the label before they buy an e-bike. Not everything calling itself an “e-bike” is legal in New York State, and some e-bikes that are legal in New York City are not legal anywhere else in the state, Only “Class 1” or “Class 2” e-bikes are legal in Western New York. © When shopping for a helmet, look for the NTA-8776 rating. These helmets are designed for higher impact speeds than standard bicycle helmets. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. We’re in this together. You are welcome to contact my office at any time for further support. Respectfully, Patrick B. Burke Member of Assembly