A San Francisco supervisor plans to introduce legislation aimed at increasing enforcement of existing laws governing e-bikes and other powered devices, citing safety concerns and complaints from residents.
The proposal comes as other Bay Area communities take action on e-bike regulations.
San Mateo County passed an e-bike ordinance last month, and Danville banned riding e-bikes and e-scooters in parks.
District 4 Supervisor Alan Wong said the legislation would focus on enforcing existing requirements related to age limits, helmet use, speed and riding on sidewalks.
"Our resolution emphasizes safety, education, parental or guardian notification and age appropriate interventions when minors are involved," Wong said.
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Electric bikes and scooters have become increasingly popular in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Wong said concerns about safety have prompted calls for stronger enforcement.
ABC7 Eyewitness News could not locate public reports of citations related to e-bike or e-scooter laws from the past several years.
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The San Francisco Police Department recently publicized an enforcement operation in the South of Market neighborhood. Wong said he has heard from residents concerned about unsafe riding and from people who have been injured in incidents involving powered devices.
"In July, a woman pushing a stroller was struck by an electric unicycle while crossing the Great Highway at Lawton Street. She was taken to the hospital. Thankfully, the child was not injured," Wong said.
James Rutledge, of Electric Bike Center San Francisco, said he supports the proposed ordinance.
"I support it 100%. The more safe my riders are out, my customers out on the road the more customers I can have.
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The more people that out here enjoying being out in the open air instead of being stuck in a car," Rutledge said.
San Francisco resident Brian Davis also voiced support.
"I'd like to see more enforcement of the laws regarding speeds on the e-bikes," Davis said.
Dr. John Maa, of San Francisco Marin Medical Society, said pediatric trauma centers have seen an increase in e-bike-related injuries.
"These devices are presenting with injuries more like motorcycles. And we've noticed that there's something very different. An e-bike is not just a bike," Dr. Maa said.
Wong said he plans to introduce the legislation next week and host hearings after. The measure would require approval before becoming law.
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