Life Lesson for E-Bike Rider Found to be at Fault...CBPD Issues Public Safety Reminder

PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE – BICYCLE & E-BIKE SAFETY

From Chief Michael P. Ward

City of Bradford Police Department

On 05/05/2026 at approximately 3:56 PM, officers from the City of Bradford Police Department responded to the intersection of Kennedy Street and Amm Street for a reported motor vehicle versus E-Bike crash. The City of Bradford Fire Department and EMS also responded to provide medical treatment to the injured E-Bike operator.

Following investigation of the incident, it was determined that the E-Bike operator was at fault and committed several summary traffic violations which directly contributed to the crash.

As we approach the summer season and warmer weather, the City of Bradford Police Department would like to remind everyone that motorists, bicyclists, and E-Bike operators all share the roadway together. Safety requires everyone to pay attention, operate responsibly, and follow Pennsylvania traffic laws.

Bicycles and E-Bikes are considered vehicles when operated on roadways and operators are required to obey traffic laws just like motorists. This includes:

• Stopping at stop signs and traffic signals

• Yielding the right-of-way when required

• Riding in the proper direction of traffic

• Using proper hand signals when turning or stopping

• Operating at safe and lawful speeds

• Using lights and reflectors when riding at night

One of the growing concerns we continue to observe involves the speed capabilities of modern E-Bikes. Many E-Bikes can travel at very high speeds and operators must remember that speed limits apply to them as well.

Pennsylvania law also places additional regulations on certain E-Bikes depending on their motor size and capabilities. E-Bikes over certain power and speed thresholds may legally be classified as motor-driven cycles or motorcycles, which can require:

• A valid driver’s license

• Registration

• Insurance

• Proper equipment compliance

We frequently encounter juveniles operating high-powered E-Bikes or electric dirt bikes on public roadways without the legally required licensing or equipment. Officers will continue to take enforcement action when necessary in accordance with Pennsylvania law to improve safety for everyone.

Additionally, the City of Bradford Police Department would like to remind the public that bicycles and E-Bikes are NOT permitted to be ridden on sidewalks within the downtown business district. This ordinance exists to protect pedestrians and prevent injuries in heavily traveled areas. Operators observed riding on downtown sidewalks may be cited.

Parents are encouraged to review the laws and safety requirements involving E-Bikes before purchasing or allowing children to operate them. Not every electric bike marketed online is street legal in Pennsylvania.

For everyone’s safety:

 Wear a helmet

 Stay alert and avoid distractions

 Obey traffic laws

 Ride responsibly

 Watch your speed

 Be visible to motorists

We will be attaching crash footage from this incident to help educate the public on the serious dangers that can result when traffic laws are ignored.

Our goal is not simply enforcement — it is education, injury prevention, and keeping everyone safe this summer.

Please drive and ride responsibly.