(Michigan City, IN) - The Michigan City Police Department is reminding residents about Indiana’s current laws regarding electric motorized devices now that summer-like weather has arrived.

 

Police say electric motorized devices are becoming increasingly popular as a form of transportation, especially among young riders.   These devices are categorized as electric foot scooters (e-scooters), e-bicycles (e-bikes), or e-moto devices.

 

The most common electric motorized device being operated in Michigan City is called an electric bicycle or “e-bike.

 

Electric bicycles are regulated similarly to traditional bicycles and are not considered motorized vehicles. Therefore, no license, registration or insurance are required to operate an electric bicycle.  A person must be 15 years of age or older to operate an e-bike, police said.

 

Helmets are required for anyone less than 18 years of age to operate or ride an e-bike.  

 

“E-moto” devices are defined as a device that is powered by an electric or mechanical motor that typically exceeds 750 watts and is capable of generating speeds that exceed 28 mph when powered by the motor.

 

All operators and riders of electric foot scooters, traditional bicycles, e-bikes or e-moto devices are encouraged to wear helmets.

 

“Ride responsibility, obey the law and share the road,” police said.