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E-bikes have surged in popularity, not only around the country, but also in Webster City. With the school year just around the corner, those who have purchased them for their kids for transportation or thinking about purchasing them need to know the types of bikes that they are purchasing.
"There are so many different classifications of the e-bikes and scooters, sometimes people don't even know what they are buying," said Webster City police chief Steve Hanson.
The Iowa DOT has created a chart that gives guidance to the type of wheels they and the requirements of each. A quick summary is this:
E-bikes are heavier than traditional bicycles and can reach speeds of 20-28 mph.
E-scooters' smaller wheels make them more susceptible to cracks, bumps, and debris, which can be challenging for younger or inexperienced riders.
Both e-bikes and e-scooters require more distance to stop compared to traditional bicycles.
Both riders and drivers need to be more alert to this increasingly popular mode of transportation, especially as school gets started. The back-to-school commute creates one of the busiest and most unpredictable traffic environments of the year. As students return to the classroom, drivers will encounter:
heavier traffic around schools
increased pedestrian activity
school buses making frequent stops
e-bike and e-scooter riders traveling to and from schools
"It's just a new form of transportation," said Police Chief Steve Hanson, "I think a lot of towns are seeing more of them."
Car and truck drivers will need to be alert during the travel time before and after school.
Drivers should:
Obey posted school zone speed limits
Put phones away and eliminate distractions
Watch for crossing guards and pedestrians
Allow extra travel time to avoid rushing
Students are reminded to:
Cross at marked crosswalks whenever possible
Stay alert and avoid phones when walking near traffic and crossing streets
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing a roadway
Use designated crosswalks and bus loading areas
Follow school safety rules for bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters
As e-bike and e-scooter popularity continues to climb, more students are expected to use these devices for the daily trip to and from school. That makes it increasingly important for riders and motorists to understand how to safely share the road.
"These devices are not toys," said Brian Ortner, a spokesman for AAA "E-bikes and scooters can travel at speeds that catch riders and drivers off guard. As e-ride usage increases, so have the number of serious injuries and deaths. If your child plans to e-ride to school, we encourage parents to teach safe riding habits before the first day."
"It's definitely increased in popularity," Chief Hanson said, "The people who are speeding on them are on something not even classified as an e-bike."
Using hand signals and using caution while in traffic is critical for safety.
"Everyone on a bicycle needs to follow the traffic laws," he said, "Everyone needs to watch out for each other."
Earlier in the summer, there were some issues during Market Nights, "The issue was addressed," said Hanson, "so it was not a continued issue during Market Nights."
But obeying traffic laws, and being aware of others using road is important for all concerned.
"If we have to get an ordinance to address the issue, we will," he said. He encourages parents to be aware of what they are buying, and know what you are getting.
As students prepare to ride to school, safety is of the utmost importance. Riders need to:
Know local e-ride laws, including age requirements, helmet rules, and where e-bikes and e-scooters can be ridden
Wear a properly fitted helmet that matches the speed and capabilities of the device
Obey traffic signals, signs, and speed limits, especially at intersections and crossings
“School commutes are now more complex than ever,” said Ortner, “Drivers aren't just watching for students on foot and children getting on or off school buses. They’re also sharing the road with e-bike and e-scooter riders. When you combine that with distracted driving and speeding, the consequences can be devastating.