Manchester-by-the-Sea Police Department Announces E-Bike and Motorized Scooter Enforcement Initiative

MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — The Manchester-by-the-Sea Police Department is advising residents about an increase in complaints and observed violations involving the unsafe and unlawful operation of e-bikes and motorized scooters throughout the community.

 

Officers have observed dangerous behaviors that place riders, pedestrians and motorists at risk. In some cases, officers attempting to stop riders for unsafe operation have encountered individuals who fled and continued riding recklessly, creating additional safety concerns.

 

Recent complaints and observations include:

• E-bikes traveling on sidewalks.
• E-bikes and motorized scooters striking or nearly striking pedestrians on sidewalks.
• Riders traveling down the middle of roadways and into oncoming traffic.
• Operators and passengers riding without helmets.
• Riders entering traffic without yielding or operating erratically.
• Operators performing dangerous stunts, including wheelies on public streets.
• Pedestrians being struck by debris thrown from spinning tires.
• Riders traveling at reckless speeds in residential neighborhoods and public recreational areas.

Know the Law

Not every e-bike or motorized scooter is legal to operate on public roadways, sidewalks, bike paths or other public ways.

 

Under Massachusetts law, an e-bike’s legal classification depends on its design, motor power, maximum assisted speed and other specifications. Some high-powered devices marketed as e-bikes do not meet the legal definition of an electric bicycle and may instead be subject to registration, licensing, insurance and other motor vehicle requirements.

 

Parents and riders are encouraged to understand an e-bike’s or motorized scooter’s legal classification and specifications before purchasing or operating one.

 

Enforcement Initiative

The Manchester-by-the-Sea Police Department has launched an enforcement initiative focused on the unlawful operation of high-speed e-bikes and motorized scooters. The initiative is intended to improve public safety while helping riders and families understand and comply with Massachusetts law.

 

Education First

The Department’s initial focus will be on education. Officers will stop riders who are operating e-bikes or motorized scooters illegally and explain applicable laws, discuss safe operation and educate riders and parents about legal requirements.

 

During these initial contacts, riders may receive warnings for violations.

 

If an e-bike or motorized scooter is determined to be operating unlawfully, the vehicle may be impounded for up to 15 days. Parents or guardians will be notified and required to retrieve the vehicle from the Manchester-by-the-Sea Police Department.

 

Repeat Violations

Individuals who continue to operate illegal e-bikes or motorized scooters after receiving a warning should expect increased enforcement.

 

Depending on the vehicle’s specifications and the circumstances of the violation, riders may be subject to criminal charges, citations and fines, including violations related to:

• Operating a motor vehicle without a license.
• Operating an unregistered motor vehicle.
• Other applicable motor vehicle and public safety laws.

Why This Matters

High-speed e-bikes and motorized scooters can travel fast enough to create significant safety risks when operated recklessly or in violation of Massachusetts law. Unsafe operation can endanger riders, pedestrians, motorists and others who share Manchester-by-the-Sea’s roads, sidewalks, parks and recreational areas.

 

Understanding a vehicle’s specifications and applicable legal requirements can help prevent injuries and potential legal consequences.

 

The Department appreciates residents’ cooperation as it works to keep local streets, sidewalks, parks and neighborhoods safe for everyone.

 

For questions regarding Massachusetts e-bike laws or the enforcement initiative, contact the Manchester-by-the-Sea Police Department at 978-526-1212.