UPDATE: Edison officials are taking immediate action to ban high-speed electric scooters following a surge in serious accidents. Police report that modified scooters are reaching alarming speeds of up to 45 mph on local roads, prompting urgent safety concerns.
At a public meeting on Monday, Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan detailed recent incidents, including a juvenile girl who was seriously injured on Talmadge Road. Another alarming incident occurred just last week on Plainfield Avenue. As these accidents continue to rise, the Edison council is moving toward an outright ban of high-speed e-scooters across all roads, including highways and residential areas.
The proposed ordinance aims to tackle the increasing number of modified e-scooters that exceed the legal speed limit of 19 mph in New Jersey. According to Chief Bryan, some scooters have been altered to hit speeds of 35 mph or even 45 mph. “As we all see on Route 27 and Plainfield Avenue, they’re traveling on the highways at a high rate of speed,” he stated.
The new regulations could hit parents hard, as fines for violations could reach up to $1,000. If a juvenile is caught operating a modified e-scooter, police would have the authority to impound the scooter for seven days and fine parents up to $250 for a first offense. For a second offense, the penalties escalate to a 60-day impoundment and fines of $500. Subsequent violations could result in substantial fines, making it clear that the council is serious about curbing reckless riding.
The ordinance is currently under consideration and has not yet been passed as of Wednesday afternoon. A crucial council meeting is scheduled for later this evening, where this urgent matter will be addressed.
As the debate unfolds, residents are urged to stay informed and consider the implications of these developments. With safety at the forefront, the council’s actions could set a precedent for other towns in New Jersey grappling with the same issues surrounding high-speed e-scooters.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as Edison takes steps to ensure community safety.
