March Law of the Month: e-bike and e-scooter safety
As electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters) grow in popularity, it is important to understand the rules that apply to riding them. The Wisconsin State Patrol’s March Law of the Month reminds riders and motorists alike to stay alert and share the road.
According to preliminary data, there were 64 e-bikes and e-scooters involved in motor vehicle crashes in 2025.
“As we approach spring and begin seeing more e-bikes and e-scooters, State Patrol is emphasizing that safety is a shared responsibility,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Be mindful of others and make sure you understand state and local regulations before operating an e-bike or e-scooter.”
E-bikes are defined in state statute as bicycles equipped with fully operative pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts or less. Wisconsin law categorizes e-bikes as class one, two or three according to their features. Class three are the most powerful, with throttle power reaching up to 28 mph. Class three e-bikes are the only ones with an age restriction, requiring operators to be at least 16 years old. Visit wisconsindmv.gov/cycle for an overview of these types of transportation.
According to state statute, e-bikes and e-scooters are considered vehicles on Wisconsin roads, which means they must follow the same traffic laws although Wisconsin DMV does not require a driver license or registration for either one. Always check before riding on a sidewalk or bike path and refer to the Department of Natural Resources for information on riding e-bikes on state trails. Local ordinances may have additional rules for e-bikes and e-scooters.
Wisconsin’s transportation system supports various modes of travel, relying on a collaborative effort to keep each other safe.
Tips for e-bike and e-scooter operators:
· Wear protective gear, including a helmet
· Stay visible with bright clothes, lights and reflectors
· Stay out of blind spots and use extra caution near larger vehicles like buses and trucks
· When riding on a path or sidewalk is permitted, yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal when passing
· Check behind you, especially when changing lanes
· Watch for opening car doors
· Use signals when turning or stopping
· On the road, always ride in the same direction as other traffic
Tips for motorists:
· Slow down if you see someone on the road on an e-bike or e-scooter
· The smaller profile of e-bikes and e-scooters make it harder to judge their speed and distance, so use caution
· Look twice for vulnerable road users, especially at intersections
· If parking along the street, always check the side mirrors and look back before opening doors
· Do not drive in a bicycle lane, except to enter a driveway, merge into a bicycle lane before turning at an intersection, or enter or leave a parking space located adjacent to the bicycle lane– bicycles have the right-of-way
· Stay at least three feet away from an e-bike or e-scooter
· Always buckle up
Tips for all road users:
· Avoid distractions
· Be aware of your surroundings
· Never drive or ride impaired
· Follow state and local traffic laws
View the March Law of the Month video and news release online: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/law/lom.aspx