Oceanside has approved new rules for electric bikes and other “mobility devices” that include a $50 fine for violators, but with the option to take a rider education class in lieu of paying the fine. .
The regulation requires the wearing of helmets and clarifies the rules for driving on sidewalks, in front of businesses, and in some other places. The ordinance is similar to ordinances recently approved in Carlsbad, San Marcos, Encinitas and other California communities to address the surge in e-bike riders.
First-time offenders will be allowed to participate in the Oceanside Police Department's free education program in lieu of paying a $50 fine.
A report presented at the Oceanside City Council meeting on March 13 says there are growing concerns about electric bicycles and other mobility devices, such as electric scooters and skateboards. The police department reported that since January 1, 2020, there have been 188 crashes involving bicycles and e-bikes. Until July 1, 2023.
“I think everyone knows electric bikes are here to stay,” Lt. Justin Pecchia told the City Council.
According to the report, 67 of the accidents involved electric bikes and 121 involved traditional bikes. In his 61% of accidents, the bicycle or e-bike rider was found to be at fault. Approximately 16% of crashes resulted in serious injuries, 21% involved young people, and in 60% the bicycle or e-bike rider was not wearing a helmet.
The new ordinance requires operators of mobility devices to comply with all traffic laws and regulations that operators of other vehicles abide by and not to endanger themselves, passengers or pedestrians. Carrying passengers in undesignated areas of the equipment is prohibited. If pedestrians or horses are within 50 feet, operators must disembark on city trails less than 5 feet wide.
Mobility devices are prohibited on the municipal pier, the pier amphitheater and ramp, all areas of the Junior Seau Beach Community Center Plaza, and some other posted areas.
Two residents expressed support for the ordinance. One of them, Mitch Silverstein, thanked city staff for their efforts to clarify language in earlier versions of the proposal.
The ordinance will require a second approval from the City Council, likely in the coming weeks, and will then go into effect 30 days after a notice is published in a local newspaper.