URGENT UPDATE: Edison officials are taking immediate action to ban high-speed electric scooters following a string of serious accidents. Police confirm that modified scooters are reaching speeds of up to 45 mph on local roads, prompting safety concerns among residents and officials alike.
At a public meeting on October 24, 2023, Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan detailed alarming incidents, including a juvenile girl who suffered serious injuries on Talmadge Road. Just last week, another accident occurred on Plainfield Avenue, raising red flags about the safety of these high-speed scooters.
The proposed ordinance aims to outlaw high-speed scooters across the town, including on highways and residential streets. Currently, New Jersey law restricts e-scooters to a maximum speed of 19 mph, but many riders are modifying their scooters to exceed these limits, posing a significant danger to themselves and others.
Under the new regulations, parents of reckless riders could face severe penalties. If caught speeding, juveniles may have their scooters impounded for seven days, with fines reaching $250 for the first offense. Subsequent violations could lead to 60-day impoundments and fines of up to $500. For third and further offenses, parents could be liable for fines of up to $1,000.
The council is set to review the ordinance later today, October 24, with public safety officials urging swift action to prevent further injuries. Chief Bryan expressed deep concern, stating, “As we all see on Route 27 and Plainfield Avenue, they’re traveling at a high rate of speed, creating hazardous conditions for everyone.”
This urgent situation is capturing the attention of the community as parents and residents rally for safer streets. The proposed ban highlights the critical need for regulations that protect both riders and pedestrians from the dangers associated with high-speed electric scooters.
Stay tuned for updates as the council meeting progresses and the fate of the high-speed e-scooter ban unfolds.
