Have you ever gone to make a right-hand turn, only to have an e-bike zoom past at 25 mph — from a bike lane, or no lane at all? You’re not alone. The surge in electric bicycle use — especially among teens — is outpacing the laws meant to keep riders and pedestrians safe. Now, following a fatal crash involving a 14-year-old boy in Somers Point (Atlantic County), New Jersey, lawmakers are pushing for a legislative response.
The incident highlights a growing national concern. E-bikes are faster, more affordable, and increasingly popular with younger, unlicensed riders. Yet in many states — including New Jersey — low-speed e-bikes are regulated like traditional bicycles, requiring no license, insurance, or formal training. As a result, e-bike-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities are incr