A tragic accident involving an e-bike impacted Key Biscayne this past February when a 66-year-old cyclist, Ms. Megan Andrews, a popular and well-liked special education teacher as well as long-time resident of Key Biscayne, collided head-on with a 12-year-old boy riding an e-bike at an intersection.

The crash caused both riders to fall, but unfortunately, Andrews suffered lethal injuries and died at the hospital. The 12-year-old rider suffered with minor scrapes and bruises.

This incident fueled a heated debate about e-bike safety and regulations in the community. As a result, the local Key Biscayne government passed a temporary ban on e-bikes to allow them time to evaluate safety measures and potentially apply new rules.

Some safety concerns the law had to consider after this were: E-bikes possess higher speeds than traditional bikes, which can result in more severe collisions. This is particularly the case when riders are not used to the increased speed and age limits: An e-bike may be unsafe for a 12-year-old given their a lack of judgment and experience, especially when used on public roads.

However, there are a few potential benefits of this form of transportation. E-bikes may offer a more eco-friendly transportation alternative in contrast to vehicles powered by gasoline. E-bikes make it easier for more people to cycle, promoting exercise and reducing traffic congestion. This is especially helpful for those struggling with regular bike traffic.

What might be in the future for e-bikes, scooters, etc? Well, probably more clear regulations regarding the use of e-bikes, such as setting speed limits and age restrictions which will have the potential to improve safety. Designated bike lanes and better signs could make a safer environment for e-bikes as well as regular bikes. It’s essential also to educate riders about operating e-bikes safely and following traffic laws.

Is this incident the reason ILS students are no longer permitted to school on a motorbike, scooter, or electric bike?

Possibly.

Here are some reasons for why this new rule has been implemented:

• Safety of Students: ILS may be considering paying extra attention to student safety, especially after a well-known accident involving an e-bike.  Given the many students, faculty, and staff who live in and around Key Biscayne, many are aware of this recent accident, leading to increasing worry over safety. Concerns about higher speeds and potential injuries on school grounds could be additional factors for this decision.
• Lack of Regulations: The school may not have clear rules or specific areas for using e-bikes on the premises. This may lead to confusion, accidents, or property damage.
• Insurance Concerns: Does ILS have or need a certain type of insurance to address e-bike accidents? If so, this could be another reason why eliminating e-bikes and electric scooters altogether may be the right way to go.

The recent Key Biscayne accident reminds us of the importance of discussing e-bike/scooter regulations/safety. While the temporary ban allows time to review all safety concerns, it’s just the beginning of a much larger conversation. Nationally, cities and states are dealing with e-bike classification, speed limits, and infrastructure development, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The debate is about whether e-bikes are safe enough considering their potential benefits for sustainability, exercise, and reducing traffic. To achieve the right balance, lawmakers, safety advocates, e-bike manufacturers, and riders need to collaborate.The ongoing conversation about e-bikes will determine their future as a safe and sustainable transportation option for everyone.