PHOENIX — A man was taken to a hospital Wednesday night after being hit by a car while riding an electric bike.
The collision occurred around 9 p.m. near 35th Avenue and Thomas Road.
Phoenix police say the rider may have caused the crash and are still investigating.
Video after the crash showed the mangled e-bike in the roadway. Police say the bike operator was seriously hurt, and the driver stayed at the scene.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, but intoxication is not believed to have been a factor.
While the exact cause of the crash has yet to be determined, this incident brings up a larger conversation about road safety and e-bike operation.
Phoenix Police Department has a list online about rules of the road while operating electric bikes and scooters.
They have also put out a reminder to the community about safety before the holiday season, when some may be considering gifting an e-bike.
E-Bike Smart offers a variety of safety tips and quizzes about electric bikes. Click here for more.
RELATED: Police urge parents to talk to teens about e-bike safety amid issues
Here's a recent study that shows the rise in injuries and hospitalizations in the U.S. for E-bike riders:
Federal rules requiring safety standards in e-bike batteries are in limbo after the Consumer Product Safety Commission withdrew the proposed regulation in August.
Each Valley city is either crafting or has established its own way to regulate e-bike safety.
Here's what we could find:
- Gilbert: Considering new regulations due to rising e-bike incidents among young people.
- Mesa: Class 3 type e-bikes not allowed on multi-use path unless city explicitly permits it.
- Scottsdale: Ban on Kids under 16 riding class 3 E-bikes on city property. Sellers must post notice of under 16 prohibition.
- Phoenix: Must be 18 or older to operate an e-bike. Class 3, e-bikes are banned from public-rights-of way.
- Glendale: E-bikes are prohibited in parks.
Tempe is also looking to boost safety and public awareness about e-bikes and e-scooters.
