Local Police Target E-Bike Safety

Rising concerns about electric vehicle collisions in the region have prompted a new local enforcement initiative. Anne Arundel County police announced Operation C.A.R.E., or Community Awareness & Rider Education, on Thursday.

The program targets e-bikes, e-motos, and other powered personal transportation devices. Officials cited a recent increase in high-speed sidewalk riding and unlicensed minors operating unregistered e-motos on public roads without protective gear.

The department prioritizes education and family engagement over immediate citations. Police officers and county park rangers will patrol parks and community trails to speak directly with young riders. School resource officers will also visit middle and high schools to distribute safety information.

Local retailers will receive materials to help parents understand the classification of the vehicles they purchase. Police noted that some parents mistake powerful e-motos for low-speed pedal-assist bicycles. Certain models reach speeds comparable to dirt bikes and are legally classified as unregistered motorcycles.

Under current regulations, unlicensed minors cannot operate high-powered e-motos on public roads, sidewalks, or county parks. The campaign follows the death of 14-year-old Ryan Beales in a crash on Robinson Road in Severna Park. Neighbors have called for stricter rules and increased enforcement since that incident.

Enforcement remains an option for repeat violations, according to the department. The initiative represents a coordinated effort between law enforcement and community partners to reduce accidents involving electric vehicles.