(State legislation going into effect with the New Year)...E-Bikes and E-Motos will be under the microscope.
With the surge in eelectric mobility, the legislature has introdduced several measures to ensure these vehicles coexist safely with traditional traffic. AB 544 says Electric Bikes must be equipped with a red rear reflector or a red light, solid or flashing, at all times of operation, not just at night. SB 586 says high powered electric motorcycles designed for off-road use are now officially clkassified as Off-Road Vehicles. This means riders must wear helmets and display DMV issued identification plates. SB 1271 says to prevent fire hazards, all e-bikes and lithium -ion batteries sold in California must be tested by accredited labs and properly labeled starting in 2026. Rental units must meet these standards by 2028. Safety laws will ggo into effect with the new year. AB 382 says local aauthorities will have the power to lower school zone speed limits from 25 mph to 20 mph. By 2031, this lower limit will become the automatic standard once signage is posted. AB 289 says Caltrans will launch a pilot program using automated radar and laser systems to catch speeders in highway work zones. Citations will be mailed to the registered owners of vehicles caught on camera.
