E-bike safety was on the agenda just weeks ago, but some wording in the measure had to be changed. At the Feb. 10 meeting, Goose Creek City Council members took it on once again with a fresh ordinance up for discussion. Currently, the city has no way to enforce rules to stop riders from riding recklessly.
The main part of the plan states that any e-bike that exceeds 750 watts or one horsepower and produces speeds in excess of 25 miles an hour shall be deemed a moped under this chapter and shall be subject to all regulations applicable to mopeds. Electric bikes cannot be ridden on public sidewalks but are allowed on city-designated hiker-biker trails.
It also states that e-bikes cannot travel on any roadway designed for vehicular traffic with a posted speed limit of more than 30 miles per hour, except when crossing a street at a crosswalk. Also, riders under 16 must wear a helmet.
Every e-bike must be equipped with a brake that allows skidding on dry, level and clean pavement. Also, when in use at night, an E-Bike must be equipped with a front lamp emitting white light visible from at least 500 feet ahead. It must have a red rear light visible from 50 to 300 feet.
“These e-bikes and e-scooters are relatively new to the scene, and as they’ve become more and more popular, it was clear that some common-sense rules were needed, and that’s what this ordinance would do,” said Frank Johnson, city of Goose Creek Communications Director. “This will ensure a higher level of safety for our residents.”
Another part of the plan states that the fines can be up to $500. Law enforcement officers may seize E-Devices used in violation of this section until the court orders the device returned or forfeited to the City. Repeat violations may result in confiscation of the device. While the fines for violators can be hefty, Goose CReek Mayor Greg Habib believes it’s a good compromise.
“I didn’t want too many restrictions on e-bikes, it’s how a lot of people get to work today. It’s a very important mode of transportation,” Habib said at the council meeting. “I don’t think this ordinance inhibits that ability, and I think that’s very important.”
