The Albany County Legislature on Tuesday passed a local law that regulates the use of electric bikes and electric scooters.
“This law will give law enforcement another tool to enforce e-bikes laws and help save lives,” Legislator Gary Domalewicz said. “These e-bikes are running unchecked all over our street putting everyone in danger of getting injured.”
The law requires e-bike and e-scooter riders and passengers to wear safety helmets.
It prohibits riders from operating the motorized vehicles on highways, streets and sidewalks owned by the county. County-owned parking areas and the Albany Helderberg-Hudson County Rail Trail are exempted.
It also disallows the reckless operation of the machines, including actions that threaten the health and safety of others, such as weaving and zig-zagging around motor vehicles, doing stunts and engaging in speed contests.
It makes it illegal to drive them under the influence of alcohol (a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher) and drugs.
Violators of the law would face up to $750 fines and 30 days in jail, depending on the number of offenses. The law also permits law enforcement to impound e-bikes.
You must be 16 to operate an electric scooter or bicycle in New York state.
Source: spectrumlocalnews.com
