New laws governing the use of electronic bikes and scooters have come into effect in Illinois. Lawmakers have passed legislation amending the Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5) as it pertains to what they call “micromobility vehicles.” The updated rules will crack down on unregulated use of high-speed vehicles and establish clear age restrictions.
These changes place a bigger responsibility on owners and riders of e-bikes and e-scooters. Riders are required to obey the rules of the road and do their best to prevent accidents. Here’s everything you need to know about the new regulations and how they may affect you or your children.
Existing E-Bike Laws in Illinois
Currently, Illinois categorizes electric bikes into three classes. Class 1 covers e-bikes with a pedal-assist feature that travel at speeds up to 20 mph. Class 2 is also capped at 20 mph, but these vehicles include throttle-assist, which powers the bike regardless of whether the rider is pedaling or not. Class 3 refers to e-bikes that only have pedal-assist, but can travel at speeds as high as 28 mph.
Until now, there were no state-wide laws regarding micromobility vehicles that exceed 28 mph (often known as e-motos). Given the legal gray area that these modern, high-speed bikes and scooters operated in, accidents involving micromobility vehicles have consistently increased in recent years.
What’s Changing?
Under the framework of the new laws, the existing classes for low-speed electric vehicles will remain in place. Illinois lawmakers, however, have introduced age restrictions for the first time. The state now requires that riders of Class 1 and 2 vehicles be at least 15 years old. The minimum age for Class 3 vehicles is 16.
As for high-speed e-bikes, e-motos, and e-scooters, they will now be classified as motor vehicles. In other words, if a micromobility vehicle has a maximum assisted speed of over 28 mph, it must be formally registered with the state, as well as properly insured. Riders will be required to carry a valid driver’s license and will be subject to drunk driving laws.
Additionally, new regulations formally forbid riders of high-speed e-bikes, e-motos and e-scooters from exceeding 28 mph on roads, bike lanes, bike paths, and sidewalks. Until now, local municipalities had been responsible for setting their own rules regarding the use of high-speed electric vehicles. These have now been standardized at the state level.
When Do the New Rules Start to Apply?
After Governor JB Pritzker signs the bill, the certain provisions of the law will take effect immediately. Most importantly, the age restrictions on low-speed motorized vehicles will become enforceable law the minute the legislation is signed. Local police departments will be tasked with enforcing these new rules and increase the regulation of Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes and e-scooters.
However, the designation of high-speed micromobility vehicles as motor vehicles will begin January 1st, 2027. From that point, registration, licensing, and insurance will be mandatory for these vehicles. Furthermore, any high-speed e-bikes, e-scooters, e-motos, or similar vehicles purchased after the January 1st 2027 will require titles.
Hiring a Lawyer for an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident
The attorneys at Vito & Dollenmaier Law have handled countless personal injury cases involving e-bikes and e-scooters. If you have been injured in such an accident, contact us for a free consultation and know your rights.