News Summary
As electric bicycles (e-bikes) gain popularity in the U.S., Virginia Beach is facing increasing complaints and accidents involving e-bike usage. City leaders are deliberating new regulations to ensure pedestrian safety, particularly around crowded areas like the Boardwalk. The e-bike work group has been formed to promote safe riding practices and explore potential policy changes, including mandatory helmet usage for all riders. These efforts aim to balance recreational use with safety measures for pedestrians and e-bike users alike.
Virginia Beach is considering new regulations for electric bicycles (e-bikes) following a rise in accidents and complaints from pedestrians about e-bike speeds on popular walking trails and the Boardwalk. City leaders are concerned about the safety risks posed, particularly to children, as e-bikes are capable of reaching speeds up to 25 mph.
Recent weeks have highlighted the dangers associated with e-bike usage, prompting city officials to take action. The city Council has discussed the increasing number of incidents involving e-bikes, with transportation planner Steve Lambert noting several accidents reported in the area. Complaints have surged as e-bikes have become more commonplace, particularly in crowded spaces where pedestrians often walk. City Councilman Stacy Cummings has emphasized the potential dangers posed by high-speed e-bikes, especially during busy times when children are present.
The popularity and usage of e-bikes in the U.S. have soared, with projected sales reaching $1.63 billion by 2024. E-bikes now make up about 30% of the total bicycle market, indicating a significant shift towards electric-powered transportation options. These bikes can be ridden using electric power or through pedaling, making them accessible for individuals of all ages and abilities.
Virginia Beach is combatting the national trend of increased e-bike usage for recreation and commuting with proactive measures. In response to the escalating concerns, the city has established an e-bike work group tasked with developing an educational campaign focused on promoting safe riding practices and understanding the rules of the road for e-bike users. This group is composed of representatives from various departments, including police, parks and recreation, and transportation, highlighting a collaborative approach to address the issue.
The educational campaign will utilize the city’s website, social media platforms, and physical signage to inform residents and visitors about safe e-bike practices over the coming months. Currently, city regulations allow e-bikes on sidewalks and designated bike paths, but they are prohibited on the Boardwalk, Boardwalk bike path, and resort area sidewalks. Furthermore, e-bikes are banned from Atlantic Avenue during peak tourist season from May 1 to September 30.
To enhance safety measures, the work group is exploring recommendations that may include allowing e-bikes on designated bike paths and Atlantic Avenue. This adjustment aims to alleviate congestion and safety concerns on the Boardwalk, which has been identified as an area of high risk for dangerous e-bike behavior. Vice Mayor Rosemary Wilson has specifically noted troublesome e-bike activities in this area, leading to calls for stricter oversight.
Residents have also voiced their concerns, including one resident who noted the growing safety hazards presented by e-bikes among pedestrian traffic. The city recognizes the challenges posed by enforcing e-bike regulations, especially with limited law enforcement resources. Therefore, a proposal for mandatory helmet usage is being considered for all e-bike riders, regardless of age. Currently, only riders aged 14 and under are mandated to wear helmets under the existing laws.
The e-bike work group aims to strike a balance between the recreational use of e-bikes and the transportation needs of users. In addition to local regulations, the city is looking for support from the General Assembly to implement safety measures, promote user education, and gather data on e-bike-related crashes in Virginia. Through these efforts, city leaders hope to create a safer environment for both e-bike riders and pedestrians in Virginia Beach.
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Additional Resources
- Pilot Online: Virginia Beach Looks to Reel in Electric Bikes
- Pilot Online: Letters for Aug 24 – Virginia Beach Boardwalk Should Be Free of E-Bikes
- 13 News Now: A Bicyclist Was Injured When a Virginia Beach Officer Opened His Car Door – She’s Suing for $16 Million
- NY Times: Best Bike Helmet for Commuters
- Wikipedia: Electric Bicycle
- Bicycling: Best Bike Helmets Reviews
- Daily Press: Mold Dog of Virginia
- Google Search: E-Bike Safety
Author: STAFF HERE VIRGINIA BEACH WRITER
VIRGINIA BEACH STAFF WRITER The VIRGINIA BEACH STAFF WRITER represents the seasoned team at HEREVirginiaBeach.com, your trusted source for actionable local news and information in Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach City, and beyond, delivering "news you can use" with comprehensive coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news impacting the region—supported by years of expert reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while offering top reporting on high-profile events like the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival, East Coast Surfing Championship, and military homecoming celebrations, alongside key organizations such as the Virginia Aquarium, Virginia Beach Convention Center, and Oceana Naval Air Station, plus leading businesses in tourism and defense like Busch Gardens and Northrop Grumman, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREWilliamsburg.com, providing credible, in-depth insights into Virginia's vibrant landscape. HERE Virginia Beach HERE Williamsburg
