Mayor Adams proposes 15 mph speed limit for e-bikes and e-scooters
NEW YORK (PIX11) -- In a recent effort to ensure safer city streets, Mayor Eric Adams announced Wednesday that a proposed citywide speed limit will be established for all e-bikes and e-scooters.
"Our administration is saying enough is enough: We are implementing a new 15-mile-per-hour speed limit for e-bikes and e-scooters that will make our streets safer," said Adams.
E-bikes have generated controversy, particularly among residents who question the potential dangers they pose to pedestrian safety.
One recent incident resulted in the death of Luis Cruz, a 49-year-old man who was crossing Franklin Street near India Street in Greenpoint. Cruz, who was struck by an e-bike, sustained fatal head injuries.
While pedestrian fatalities involving e-bikes remain relatively rare — totaling six between 2021 and 2024 — there were 923 pedestrian injuries involving all types of bikes during this period.
The proposed 15 miles per hour speed limit would mirror best practices for e-bike speeds in other parts of the world, including the European Union, officials say.
"Thankfully, the vast majority of e-bike and stand-up e-scooter users operate their devices safely, but we are using every tool in our safety toolkit and studying worldwide best practices to ensure every New Yorker is traveling at safe speeds on our streets," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.
Officials are considering the installation of additional physical safety measures in city parks to enhance safety for both riders and pedestrians.
Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.