The Galesburg Police Department says it will crack down on illegal use of bicycles, electric scooters and motorized bicycles.
Galesburg Police Chief Russ Idle said the increased enforcements efforts are necessary due to a rash of vehicle crashes.
In a statement, Idle said, “Recently we have been seeing an increase in the number of vehicle crashes involving bicycles, electric scooters, and motorized bicycles. Several of these crashes have involved significant life-altering injuries to the person who was riding. I have personally seen the effects of these crashes and even observed some of them on video from cameras and doorbell cameras. They are horrifying to watch.”
The common cause of accidents, according to Idle, has been illegal and dangerous operation by the person on the bike or scooter. He said some riders of bikes and scooters can be spotted violating traffic laws and taking unnecessary risks. He notes the danger posed to the motorized public, especially those not in vehicles is substantial.
Idle consulted with Knox County State’s Attorney and Knox County Sheriff Jack Harlan to address the issue.
“The three of us agreed that one of our primary missions is the protection of the health and wellbeing of the citizens of Galesburg and Knox County,” Idle said. “With this in mind, we will be increasing our enforcement efforts regarding any illegal use of bicycles, electric scooters, and motorized bicycles.”
Idle said any bicycle or motorized vehicle, including a scooter that is ridden on a public way, must obey all traffic laws. This would include speed limits, traffic control devices, and crosswalks.
Any motorized vehicle including an electric scooter or a motorized bicycle that has the ability to travel in excess of 20 mph is by definition a motor vehicle. They are not legal to ride on a public way without complying with all laws and regulations that apply including, but not limited to, a driver’s license, registration, and insurance.
