SPRINGFIELD ─ State Senator Ram Villivalam spearheaded a new law that establishes regulations for the use of toy vehicles, motor-driven bicycles and other small, low-speed electric mobility devices in Illinois.
“Technology is evolving, providing expanded mobility options for our neighbors through the rise in popularity of e-bikes and scooters,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “But without clear regulations for these devices, we are seeing increased injuries and accidents – jeopardizing community safety.”
A study conducted by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated a total of 360,800 emergency room visits from injuries sustained during micromoibility device accidents.
To regulate the use of toy vehicles, motor-driven cycles, and electric micromobility devices, the law:
- Updates the definition of low-speed gas bicycles to increase allowable top speed to 28 miles per hour
- Prohibits any micromobility device over 28 mph from sidewalks, bike lanes, bike paths and roadways
- Requires a license, registration, title and insurance coverage for any electric bicycle with a motor over 750 watts and speeds over 28 mph, e-moto devices and gas-powered bicycles as a motor driven cycle
- Requires clear signage in places where motor driven cycles are prohibited
- Prohibits retailers, distributors and manufacturers from marketing devices or vehicles in any way that would lead a customer to believe they are a low-speed e-bike
- Prohibits the operation of low-speed gas bicycles at speeds greater 28 mph on any highway, street or roadway
- Prohibits the operation of low-speed gas bicycles on sidewalks
In addition, the law sets common-sense safety regulations and passenger restrictions for operators under 18. It requires a minimum age of 15 to operate a class 1 or class 2 low-speed e-bike and clarifies that someone age 16 or older can operate a low-speed gas bicycle.
“As a physician in the pediatric emergency department, I want to commend Senator Villivalam and Rep. Hernandez for passing vital legislation that creates consistent, state-wide safety regulations for e-scooters and e-bikes. This law will prevent injuries and promote transportation safety in Illinois. Thanks to their leadership in Springfield, our communities will be safer for riders, pedestrians and drivers,” said Kristine Cieslak, MD, pediatric emergency physician at Lurie Children’s.
“People across Illinois are seeking healthier, climate friendly, affordable ways to get around, but our infrastructure designs and laws haven’t kept pace with active transportation options. This legislation is a piece of that puzzle, helping build a stronger framework for pedestrian safety, and safety of people bicycling and using other devices. Kudos to Sen. Villivalam and other lawmakers who supported this legislation for meeting the moment and making sure Illinoisans are getting around safely,” said Amy Rynell, Executive Director of the Active Transportation Alliance.
“By establishing safeguards for operating a micromoblity device, we are reducing the risk for further accidents and bolstering community safety,” said Villivalam.
Senate Bill 3484 was signed into law Wednesday and takes effect Jan 1.
