Previously Published in The Messenger
By Madison Warren
Back in December, The Messenger spoke with Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon (C-Rocky Point) about the growing concerns surrounding the rise of e-bikes in Suffolk County.
At the time, he emphasized the importance of passing I.R. 1835 and I.R. 1836 to help ensure the safety of both e-bike users and other drivers on the road. This week, he reaffirmed his support for the legislation and shared updated insights on the issue.
Lennon has continued to raise concerns about unsafe e-bike use not just across his district, but across Suffolk County, pointing to riders traveling at high speeds, weaving through traffic, and often operating without helmets. He also noted that the near-silent nature of many e-bikes makes it difficult for drivers to hear them approaching, creating added risks on busy roadways.
Under New York State law, e-bike riders must be at least 16 years old, and e-bikes are divided into classes with specific speed limits and rules governing where they can be operated. While helmets are required for certain riders and classes, Lennon said many of these regulations are not widely understood by the public.
He emphasized that a lack of awareness, even among parents, has contributed to the issue, prompting him to distribute informational materials to local school districts outlining current laws and safety guidelines.
In response, the proposed legislation aims to strengthen existing regulations by limiting where e-bikes and scooters can be used, reinforcing helmet and age requirements, and increasing penalties for reckless behavior, including higher fines and possible impoundment for repeat offenses. Parents or guardians of underage riders would also be held accountable.
Lennon said his biggest concern remains the safety of children throughout the district. He described witnessing multiple dangerous situations firsthand, including kids weaving in and out of traffic along NY-25A, an adult performing a wheelie while traveling against traffic, and a child riding uphill in the dark, nearly impossible to see. In addition, his office has received numerous complaints about young riders harassing residents.
“My biggest concern is someone will be killed on an e-bike. We have heard from several medical professionals the increase in people, especially children, with head injuries related to e-bike operation,” Lennon told The Messenger.
Lennon explained that while both New York State and Suffolk County previously had laws in place regarding e-bike use, there was little ability to enforce them effectively. The recently passed County legislation addresses that gap by giving law enforcement the authority to impound e-bikes when violations occur. Regulations surrounding e-bike classifications, speed limits, and general operation remain under New York State law.
Enforcement is already underway, with several e-bikes having been impounded in recent weeks. Lennon said his office has received multiple calls regarding these actions, highlighting both the increased enforcement and a general lack of public awareness. Lennon emphasized the importance of making sure residents are aware of the laws and potential penalties.The goal, he said, is to ensure the public understands the rules and consequences moving forward, rather than being caught off guard by enforcement measures.
Lennon said he will continue working to address the issue by pushing for stronger awareness and accountability, stressing that the goal is to prevent a tragedy before it happens. He urged residents and families to take the laws seriously and be mindful of how e-bikes are being used, emphasizing that safety must come first for everyone on the road.