Community Corner

Sudbury Police To Host Bicycle, E-Bike Safety Presentation Amid Safety Concerns

The event comes as Massachusetts communities report growing concerns about e-bike crashes and unsafe riding.

SUDBURY, MA — Sudbury police will offer residents a chance to learn more about bicycle and e-bike safety during an educational event in September.

The Sudbury Police Department will host MassBike on Sept. 10 for a presentation covering safe riding practices, applicable laws and bicyclists’ responsibilities. The event is intended for parents and adult riders, especially those new to cycling in Sudbury.

The presentation will address safety considerations for traditional bicycles and e-bikes, according to the department.

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Attendance is limited to 30 Sudbury residents because of space constraints. Police said the event’s start time may change slightly and will be finalized before Sept. 10.

The department plans to offer more bicycle safety training in the future, including programs designed for young riders.

Find out what's happening in Sudburyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Residents can register here.

E-Bike Safety Concerns In Massachusetts

The event comes as Massachusetts communities report growing concerns about e-bike crashes and unsafe riding.

UMass Memorial Medical Center’s emergency department has been treating three to five e-bike-related trauma cases per week, up from about one case per week during the same period last year. One or two cases each week require surgery.

Reported injuries have included brain bleeds, traumatic head injuries, facial fractures and serious orthopedic injuries.

Massachusetts recognizes Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes with motors of 750 watts or less that provide assistance at speeds of up to 20 mph. Riders do not need a license, but e-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks and local governments may restrict them from some paths.

State law also requires bicyclists and bicycle passengers age 16 or younger to wear properly fitted helmets.

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