 Electric Motorcycle vs. Automobile AccidentOn October 25, 2025, at approximately 10:52 p.m., Louisville Police officers responded to an electric motorcycle vs. automobile accident near the intersection of Pine Street and Lafarge Street. The juvenile driver of the motorcycle sustained non life-threatening injuries. While the Louisville Police Department does not post about every vehicle accident in the city, this incident highlights an important issue: understanding the differences between e-bikes, low-powered scooters, and electric motorcycles. Each has unique laws and regulations that riders and parents need to be aware of. In this case, the 15-year-old operator of the electric motorcycle was cited for no registration, no proof of insurance, no headlight, and no driver’s license. Many young riders and parents are unsure what is legal to ride and where it’s permitted. What You Need to Know About E-Bikes, Low-Powered Scooters, and Electric MotorcyclesE-Bikes: - Class 1 (pedal assist, max 20 mph): Allowed on multi-use paths and open space trails.
- Class 2 (pedal assist + throttle, max 20 mph): Allowed on multi-use paths; not recommended for children under 16.
- Class 3 (pedal assist, max 28 mph): Restricted to roads and bike lanes. Operators must be at least 16 years old; helmets are required for anyone under 18. These are not allowed on pedestrian paths or trails.
Low-Powered Scooters - Power output: Over 750 watts and under 4476 watts
- Operators must be at least 16 years old, have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a state low-power scooter 3-year registration sticker.
- Not allowed on pedestrian paths or trails.
Electric Motorcycles - Power output: Over 4476 watts
- Operators must be at least 16 years old, have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a license plate.
- Not allowed on pedestrian paths or trails.
Parents of juveniles illegally operating a low-powered scooter or motorcycle may be cited for allowing the juvenile to operate the vehicle. |
