As your Chief of Police, I would like to share some concerns that have been brought to the Whitehouse Police Department’s attention.  We have received a growing number of complaints regarding the reckless and unsafe operation of electric bicycles (E-Bikes) within our community. While E-Bikes can be a fun, eco-friendly, and efficient means of transportation, it is essential that all riders, and the parents of young riders share the understanding of the laws and follow the laws to ensure everyone’s safety.

I will bluntly state that the issue of Electric Bicycles is confusing, complicated and misunderstood. There are many factors that must be considered when addressing the issue, and the laws are changing as the technology as it relates to “Electric Bicycles” evolves continually.

I will provide you with segments of the Ohio Revised code and I will also summarize.

“Electric Bicycles”, for all intents and purposes, are considered as Bicycles therefore they are permitted on the roadway and bike trails, so that all traffic laws apply the same between “Electric Bicycles” and regular bicycles.

Reckless Operation is Illegal:

It is unlawful to operate any bicycle or e-bike:

• In a way that endangers pedestrians or others.
• Without proper control (i.e., weaving, riding without hands on handlebars).
• At speeds that are unsafe for the conditions.
• Without regard for the safety of others in public or private spaces.
• Riding with a passenger when the e-bike is not designed as such.

Now there are 3 Classifications of “E- Bikes.

1. Class 1: E-bikes that provide electric assistance only when the rider is pedaling and until the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph.
2. Class 2: E-bikes that provide electric assistance regardless of whether the rider is pedaling but do not provide electric assistance once the e-bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph.
3. Class 3: E-bikes that provide electric assistance only when the rider is pedaling and until the bicycle reaches a speed of 28 mph.

E-bikes should not be confused with motorized bicycles (or “mopeds”), although they are both vehicles under Ohio law. The laws in this section apply to all bicycles, including E-bikes.

Class 3 E-Bikes do require a helmet and require the rider to be of the age of 16 (But do NOT require a Driver’s License).

Like bicycles, E-Bikes do not require helmets (even for juveniles), but helmets are encouraged.

E-Bike Path Usage:

• Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (with a max speed of 20 mph) are allowed on bike paths and shared-use paths.  However, the motor must not be engaged if the e-bike is upon any sidewalk and must be under pedaled power  (R.C. §4511.711).
• Class 3 e-bikes (with a max speed above 20 mph) may not be operated on bike paths, shared-use paths or sidewalks unless the path is adjacent to the roadway

(A) Every bicycle or electric bicycle when in use at the times specified in section 4513.03 of the Revised Code, shall be equipped with the following:

• (1) A lamp mounted on the front of either the bicycle or electric bicycle or the operator that shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front and three hundred feet to the sides. A generator-powered lamp that emits light only when the bicycle or electric bicycle is moving may be used to meet this requirement.
• (2) A red reflector on the rear that shall be visible from all distances from one hundred feet to six hundred feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle;

Penalties for Violations: 

• Violations of these laws are strict liability offenses, which means intent is not required for prosecution.
• Penalties include:

Minor misdemeanor for a first offense.

Misdemeanor of the 4th or 3rd degree for repeat offenses within one year.

A Shared Responsibility: 

Parents, guardians, and e-bike riders, please take the time to understand these regulations and operate with respect to others in our community. The safety of pedestrians, children, and other road/path users depends on your responsible behavior.

This announcement is issued in the interest of public safety and community harmony. Let’s all do our part to keep our neighborhoods safe and enjoyable for everyone.

If a citizen observes reckless or unsafe operation of an E-Bike call Dispatch at 419-255-8443 (non-emergency) or 911 to report the incident/s as it occurs so that a Whitehouse Officer can respond.

– Chief Allan Baer

Ohio Revised Code/Ohio Law links have been posted below for reference.

https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4511.522

https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4511.711

https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4511.56