Increasingly popular e-bikes form part of a wider review of road safety matters, with updates expected in the coming weeks, the transport minister has said.

Owen Darrell made clear that behaviours on the island’s roads remained a “significant concern” for the Government, while electrically powered bikes were among many issues under consideration as part of the latest approach.

A co-ordinated effort continued this week to address challenges through enforcement, public education, and legislative and policy measures.

Mr Darrell said: “The growing use of e-bikes and other electrically powered vehicles forms part of that broader review.

“The Government is actively examining road safety data, operational trends, enforcement considerations and the current regulatory framework.

“This work includes engagement with relevant stakeholders and consideration of approaches adopted in other jurisdictions.

“The recent enforcement initiative by the Bermuda Police Service is evidence that action is already under way, while maintaining a broader focus on the range of road safety challenges facing Bermuda.

“The public should expect more updates in the coming weeks as this work progresses.

“Targeted measures are being developed, and we are engaged in the necessary consultation and legislative review.”

Superintendent Arthur Glasford, of the BPS, told The Royal Gazette: “E-bikes have rapidly become a significant part of Bermuda's transportation network, particularly among younger riders, resulting in a noticeable increase in the number of inexperienced riders sharing the road with other vehicles.”

He noted that a particular area of concern is the increasing number of young and inexperienced riders operating the vehicles without the risk awareness or decision-making skills required to navigate traffic safely.

“While e-bikes offer significant transportation benefits, unsafe riding behaviours among both youths and adults are increasingly placing riders, pedestrians and other road users at risk of serious injury,” Mr Glasford added.

Police are addressing the issue through a strategy of targeted enforcement, prevention and partnership work aimed at changing behaviour before crashed happen.

Mr Glasford confirmed that all e-bike riders on the island, regardless of age, were subject to Bermuda's road traffic laws.

“Police will continue to enforce offences under the Road Traffic Act 1947, including speeding, dangerous and careless riding, failing to stop at stop signs, and failing to obey traffic signals,” he said.

“Riders who choose to ignore road traffic laws should expect proactive enforcement action, including being stopped, investigated and prosecuted where appropriate.”

Mr Glasford noted that officers had encountered riders “significantly” below the age of 16.

He said: “The concern is not simply that under-16s are breaking the law; it is that they may lack the maturity and experience needed to safely operate a motorised vehicle in traffic.

“Younger riders often lack the experience, judgment and awareness required to safely operate a motorised vehicle in traffic.

“The risk increases significantly when riders engage in behaviours such as speeding, weaving through traffic, ignoring traffic controls, carrying passengers unlawfully or performing dangerous manoeuvres.

“These behaviours dramatically increase the likelihood of a collision resulting in serious injury or death.”

Mr Glasford added: “E-bikes are capable of reaching speeds at which a single lapse in judgment, moment of distraction or loss of control can result in catastrophic consequences.

“[They] should not be viewed as toys or recreational devices.

“They are motorised vehicles that require the same level of responsibility, situational awareness and compliance with traffic laws as any other road-going vehicle.

“The consequences can be severe: serious injury, prosecution, fines and, in the worst cases, the loss of life.”

He added: “E-bikes are an important and legitimate form of transportation, but they also carry significant responsibilities.

“Our message is clear: the goal is to prevent serious injuries, save lives and make Bermuda's roads safer for everyone.”

Craig Cannonier, the shadow transport minister, has called for clarity between the different models available.

He said: “Importers and retailers should know how a vehicle will be classified before bringing it into Bermuda or offering it for sale.

“Parents and consumers should know what they are purchasing, and police should have a clear framework they can enforce.

“This is not about banning e-bikes or penalising responsible riders.

“Electric mobility has a place in Bermuda. This is about ensuring our legislation keeps pace with rapidly changing technology while protecting everyone who shares our roads.”

The Bermuda Road Safety Council, through a series of social-media posts, has also been encouraging e-bike users to wear a helmet, slow down and follow the laws of the road.