Bloomfield Township officials approved a six‑month moratorium on electric bikes and electric scooters for anyone under the age of 16. The temporary rule, adopted Monday night, was prompted by a recent collision on Telegraph Road that left two 13‑year‑old riders injured.
Incident that sparked the action
On September 8, two teenagers were crossing Telegraph Road at the Hickory Ridge intersection when an F‑250 traveling south struck them. Police initially reported the youths in critical condition. The crash is part of a broader rise in vehicle‑e‑bike collisions that local law enforcement has been tracking.
Details of the moratorium
Under the new ordinance, electric bikes and scooters may not be ridden on sidewalks or any township‑owned property by anyone younger than 16. Violators will have the devices confiscated and returned to their parents. Residents who believe an exemption is warranted can submit a written request to the township board for consideration.
Law enforcement perspective
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard highlighted the confusion surrounding the three classes of e‑bikes, each with different rules about where they may be ridden, who may operate them, and required safety gear. He also noted that, according to township police, e‑motos are limited to private use and that anyone riding one on a public street must hold a driver’s license.
Sheriff Bouchard urged the Michigan legislature to adopt clearer statewide standards for electric bikes and scooters, arguing that uniform rules would help reduce accidents and simplify enforcement.
Community response
Parents and local riders expressed mixed reactions. Some praised the board’s swift response to protect children, while others argued that education and better signage would be more effective than a blanket ban. The township’s exemption process offers a path for families who can demonstrate responsible use and appropriate supervision.
Next steps
The board plans to use the six‑month period to study the issue further and draft a permanent ordinance that balances safety with the growing popularity of electric micro‑mobility. Public input will be solicited through town hall meetings and an online comment portal before any final legislation is adopted.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
