Trumbull Tightens Grip on E-Bike and E-Scooter Regulations
In an effort to enhance safety and compliance, Trumbull town officials have significantly increased fines for the reckless operation of motorized vehicles, including electric bikes and scooters. The decision, made at a Town Council meeting on September 9, reflects growing concerns over safety in public spaces.
First Selectman Vicki Tesoro, along with the police and other authorities, is taking the issue “very seriously,” highlighting the town’s commitment to ensuring safe environments for residents. The town already prohibits motorized vehicles on trails and parks, such as the Pequonnock River Trail, as noted on the town’s website.
Trumbull’s municipal code now includes e-bikes and e-scooters alongside quads and dirt bikes, according to Police Chief Michael Lombardo. The penalties for reckless operation have been increased from $25 to $100 for the first offense and $200 for subsequent violations.
The Town Council acted swiftly to implement these changes, as the previous $25 penalty was deemed “insufficient” by Chief Lombardo to deter illegal behavior. Local police have the authority to seize e-bikes and e-scooters, especially in repeat offenses, with the chief stating, “I would much rather take an e-bike from somebody rather than have some kind of tragedy occur.”
Chief Lombardo pointed out that many violators are teenagers, often without parental knowledge. Parents will be notified in such cases, as the chief remarked, “Parents really need to make sure their child is responsible and mature enough to ride these because it’s powered by a motor.”
Complaints about inappropriate use of electric bikes and scooters have been rising, according to a July post on the town’s website. Incidents have involved children and teens operating these vehicles on roads, sidewalks, and other public areas. Community members, motorists, and public safety personnel have voiced concerns.
In a recent incident, a teenager evaded a police officer while operating an e-bike recklessly. The following day, the same behavior resulted in a ticket, and the bike was towed, as Lombardo recounted.
The police department plans to collaborate with local schools and parent-teacher organizations to educate the youth and their parents about the regulations and risks associated with e-bikes. “We really want to get things pushed out through the Board of Education,” Lombardo explained, noting that some parents are unaware of how fast e-bikes can go.
In Connecticut, e-bikes are categorized into three classes based on motor speed disengagement. Class 1 e-bikes disengage at 20 mph, while Class 3 disengage at 28 mph, with operators required to be at least 16 years old. Details on the categories can be found here.
Original Story at www.ctinsider.com