State Rep. Ed
Soliday’s (R-Valparaiso) legislation addressing electric bicycle safety
recently advanced out of the House of Representatives.
Electric bicycles
are equipped with motors to assist cyclers as they pedal. Since these
bicycles and other electric transportation devices have become increasingly
popular, Soliday said legislation is needed to outline safety requirements
for users and manufacturers.
“Electric bicycles
provide Hoosiers a healthy and convenient alternative for transportation,”
Soliday said. “As we see more of these bicycles on streets and trails across
the state, we want to ensure the safety of riders and pedestrians. By
putting a few commonsense guidelines in place, we can help keep Hoosier
riders safe.”
Soliday’s
legislation would require manufacturers to display a label on each bicycle
including information on class, top speed, and motor power, and to equip
each bicycle with a motor that disengages when the user stops pedaling or
applies the brakes.
Soliday’s proposal
would also address specifications for Class 3 bicycles, which have more
powerful motors and a top speed of 28 miles per hour. Because of their high
speeds, Soliday said users should be at least 15 years old to operate a
Class 3 electric bicycle, and riders under 18 should wear helmets. It would
also empower local authorities to determine where and when electric bicycles
can be used.
HB 1236 now moves
to the Senate for consideration. To learn more, visit iga.in.gov