Rapid City, S.D. – In response to a growing number of concerns from local residents, along with officer observations of unsafe behaviors amongst riders of e-bikes, e-motorcycles, and e-scooters, the Rapid City Police Department is launching a targeted safety and education initiative to promote responsible e-bike operation across the city.
In recent months, community members have reported frequent incidents of reckless riding, including excessive speeding on sidewalks and the city bike path, failure to yield to pedestrians, and non-compliance with traffic signals. As the popularity of electric modes of transportation continues to surge, the RCPD is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of both riders and pedestrians on streets, trails, and public walkways.
Recognizing that many young residents utilize electric modes of transportation for their daily commute to school and recreational activities, officers will emphasize an educational approach rather than immediate penalization for juvenile riders. Initial interactions with juvenile riders exhibiting unsafe behavior will focus on clear warnings, corrective guidance, and parent notification where appropriate.
Parents and members of the public can check the classifications, applicable laws, and permissible riding areas for electric bikes and scooters on the RCPD’s website.
The RCPD reminds all e-bike operators of essential safety rules:
- Obey Traffic Signs & Signals: E-bikes are subject to the same rules of the road as motor vehicles and standard bicycles. Motorized scooters cannot be operated on roadways with a speed limit exceeding 35 mph.
- Yield to Pedestrians: Always give pedestrians the right-of-way on sidewalks, crosswalks, and shared paths.
- Wear a Helmet: Helmets are strongly encouraged for all riders and are critical in preventing severe injury.
- Maintain Safe Speeds: Adjust speed according to pedestrian foot traffic, road conditions, and visibility.
- Use Lights and Reflectors: Ensure visibility during early morning, dusk, and evening hours.
While education remains the priority for younger operators, RCPD officers will enforce local ordinance and state law violations when necessary, particularly for severe or repeated infractions that compromise public safety.
Residents are encouraged to report recurring traffic safety concerns or hazardous riding locations directly to the Rapid City Police Department utilizing the non-emergency dispatch number at 605-394-4131.
