MPD sees increase in E-bike and play vehicle violations

Over the last few weeks, the Menomonie Police Department has seen an uptick in E-bike and play vehicle violations in the City of Menomonie with numerous crashes and injuries reported. Many violations have been committed by juveniles who are not old enough to have a driver's license. We want to clarify city ordinances and state laws regarding these modes of transportation to help keep our streets safe.

1. City Ordinance 6-7-4:

Every person riding a bicycle upon a roadway or shoulder of a highway is granted all of the rights and subject to all of the duties specified in Chapter 346, Wisconsin Statutes.

Clarified, this means that bicyclists must follow all applicable rules of the road.

Examples include stopping at stop signs and stop lights, following the posted speed limit, having lights on the front and rear of the vehicle during hours of darkness, and operating on the correct side of the roadway.

2. Wisconsin State Statute 346.78

Play vehicles not to be used on roadway. No person riding a play vehicle may operate it on any roadway except when crossing at a crosswalk.

A "play vehicle" is defined as a toy vehicle upon which a person may ride. If the vehicle cannot be licensed, registered, and insured, it is likely considered a play vehicle. Examples include electric dirt bikes, unregistered ATVs, and pit bikes. This section does not apply to e-bikes or electric scooters.

Many sidewalks in the Downtown Menomonie area are also restricted from play vehicles. For a full list of sidewalks where play vehicles can operate, visit the City of Menomonie City Ordinances.

3. Wisconsin State Statute 346.806

Special rules applicable to electric bicycles. Wisconsin State Statutes clarify that electric bicycles have all the same duties and responsibilities as regular bicycles when following the rules of the road.

An electric bicycle is defined as a bicycle that is equipped with fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power and an electric motor of 750 watts or less.

In conclusion, unregistered dirt bikes (electric or gas powered), bikes that are solely powered by a motor, and unregistered ATVs are not allowed on Wisconsin roadways or sidewalks.

From the MPD Facebook page.