You’ve probably noticed more electric bicycles around your Connecticut neighborhood lately. E-bikes are more popular than ever, especially among teenagers who like the freedom and thrills that e-bikes provide.
E-bikes are convenient and eco-friendly, but they can also be dangerous. The combination of inexperienced young riders and motorized vehicles capable of reaching speeds up to 28 mph can lead to injuries for riders, pedestrians, and motorists.
As a parent, understanding Connecticut’s e-bike regulations is important, and will help keep your teen safe and avoid penalties for violating the law.
Connecticut e-bike rules
The state categorizes e-bikes into three classes:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with the motor stopping at 20 mph
- Class 2: Provides power with or without pedaling, stopping at 20 mph
- Class 3: Provides power up to 28 mph
Connecticut imposes several important regulations:
- Riders under 16 cannot operate Class 3 e-bikes on public roads or paths
- Helmets are mandatory for all e-bike riders regardless of age
- E-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks and limited-access highways
- These devices must follow all standard road rules, including yielding to pedestrians
- E-bikes must stay in the right lane or shoulder when slower than traffic
- Towns may impose additional local regulations
These rules also apply to other micro-mobility devices, such as e-scooters and hoverboards, which are also popular.
What’s behind the concern over safety?
Hospital data on e-bike injuries is concerning, with reported injuries skyrocketing from 3,500 in 2017 to 24,400 in 2022. Nearly half of all e-bike injuries recorded during this period occurred in 2022.
There are a few reasons that e-bikes cause injuries:
- E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bicycles
- Young riders often lack experience handling motorized vehicles
- Stopping distances are greater due to both speed and weight
- Motorists don’t anticipate bikes traveling at such high speeds
Connecticut communities are responding to the e-bike safety crisis by providing safety education programs. Your local police department, school or bicycle coalition may offer training courses to help you or your teen ride more safely.
Careless riders face serious consequences
Reckless e-bike operation endangers both your child and others on the road. New Canaan police report increasing complaints about juveniles speeding on e-bikes and nearly colliding with automobiles. These aren’t just minor infractions. They can lead to life-threatening injuries.
Violators of Connecticut’s e-bike laws face tickets with fines of $117, regardless of age. More importantly, the physical consequences can be severe, with trauma surgeons reporting serious head injuries, fractures and spinal damage from e-bike accidents.
Before handing over the keys to an e-bike, ensure your teen thoroughly understands traffic laws and safe riding practices. Consider practicing together in low-traffic areas before allowing independent riding. Your guidance could prevent a serious accident and help ensure your child enjoys this new mode of transportation safely.
