A child was seriously hurt when they crashed an electric motorcycle into a parked car Thursday in Rochester Hills.
The 12-year-old motorcyclist was wearing a bicycle helmet when they struck a 2010 Ram 1500 that was legally parked along the roadway in the area of Dorfield Drive and Briston Drive, authorities said.
Sometimes called "electric bicycles" or "e-bikes," the vehicles may be considered motorcycles depending on their design, power and maximum speed, Oakland County Sheriff Michael J. Bouchard said in a press release.
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As such, they may be subject to Michigan laws regarding licensing, registration, insurance and equipment.
"These high-powered electric motorcycles are capable of reaching speeds that can cause catastrophic injuries in a matter of seconds, and they should never be treated as toys," Bouchard said.
The sheriff also said that bicycle helmets are not designed to provide the same level of protection as a motorcycle helmet.
"Parents need to understand exactly what they are purchasing for their children, and riders need to know and follow the law," Bouchard said. "That includes understanding where these vehicles can legally be operated, what licensing and registration requirements apply, and using safety equipment specifically designed for the type of vehicle being ridden."
The child was transported to a hospital in Royal Oak where they were in serious but stable condition, authorities said.
Circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Child seriously hurt when 'e-motorcycle' hits parked pickup