Norwalk targets e-bike safety

NORWALK — Norwalk police are stepping up enforcement and education efforts regarding bicycle and electric bike use as warmer weather brings more riders onto city streets. In a release, the department said it has seen an increase in bicycle-related complaints across Norwalk and plans to focus on awareness, safe riding practices and compliance with traffic laws. Police said the goal is to address safety concerns involving bicyclists, pedestrians and drivers as e-bikes continue to grow in popularity locally and in surrounding areas. While e-bikes offer a convenient form of transportation, they must be operated under the same rules that apply to traditional bicycles and other roadway users. "All bikes, including e-bikes, must follow all rules of the road," Norwalk police Chief Scott Dahlgren said. He noted that higher speeds associated with e-bikes can increase the risk of injury, particularly at speeds of 20-25 miles per hour. The department reminded riders that e-bikes are not permitted to use a throttle or electronic assist while operating on sidewalks. The restriction is intended to limit speeds in pedestrian areas and reduce the chance of collisions, according to the release. Police also released information outlining how e-bikes are classified under Ohio law: • Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only and stop assisting at 20 mph • Class 2 models include throttle assistance with the same speed limit • Class 3 e-bikes can reach up to 28 mph and carry additional requirements, including a minimum operator age of 16 and a helmet requirement. All riders, including those using e-bikes, are required to follow traffic laws. That includes obeying signals, riding on the correct side of the road and remaining alert. The department also pointed to lighting requirements for riding at night, including front and rear lights or reflectors. Injuries on the rise The push comes as national data shows injuries tied to electric bikes have increased sharply in recent years. A study of U.S. hospital data found e-bike injuries rose from fewer than 1,000 cases in 2017 to more than 23,000 in 2024, reflecting rapid growth in use, according to a study released by the Centers for Disease Control. Federal safety data also shows more than 53,000 emergency room visits linked to e-bikes between 2017 and 2024, along with more than 100 reported deaths during that period. E-bike crashes are more likely than traditional bicycle crashes to involve motor vehicles, which can increase injury severity, according to the study. Helmet use remains a key recommendation. While helmets are required for Class 3 e-bike riders, Dahlgren said they are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injury for all cyclists. The department said officers will increase enforcement efforts in the coming weeks alongside public education campaigns. "The Norwalk Police Department needs our children, parents, grandparents, teachers and neighbors to help keep each other safe as we get back outside," Dahlgren said.