Charlotte County leaders discuss steps toward new e-bike safety regulations

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. —

Charlotte County leaders are in the midst of a meeting to discuss implementing new safety regulations for e-bikes following a series of nearly 30 crashes in just four months last year, one of which was fatal.

Last September, a rider lost control and died from their injuries along Harbor Boulevard off of U.S. 41, with video from the crash scene showing a crumpled e-bike.

More recently, a woman was airlifted to a hospital after crashing her e-bike in front of the Knight Inn on Christmas Day, just a couple of miles down the street.

County leaders aim to focus on regulating riders and promoting safety. Proposed new rules would set a speed limit of 15 miles per hour on sidewalks, require lights at night, mandate helmets for children, and allow officers and deputies to issue tickets for unsafe behavior.

Currently, county leaders are working to schedule a public meeting to gather residents' thoughts and concerns on e-bike safety. Community members are eager for more safety precautions.

"I think you should have lights on the front, the back, have a helmet, the whole nine. I think there should be more precautions for it," said Alexis Rodriguez of Punta Gorda.

The meeting is currently in session at the county chambers, and further updates are expected following the discussion.

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