Metro Detroit officials move to restrict youth e-bike access after injury surge

Metro Detroit emergency crews recorded 33 serious e-bike injuries requiring ambulance transport as of July 2026. This figure marks a 57 percent increase over the 21 incidents logged during the entire 2025 calendar year. The surge in trauma cases has prompted law enforcement and hospital systems to coordinate a regional response to protect young riders.

The Detroit East Medical Control Authority tracks these figures for Detroit and its eastern suburbs. While e-bike injuries are climbing, e-scooter incidents remain more frequent. Authorities logged 123 e-scooter events in 2025, with 79 already recorded this year. Medical staff report that many victims suffer traumatic brain injuries and broken bones, particularly when they fail to wear protective headgear.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard, Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington, and Macomb County Sheriff’s Office Captain Jeffery McPherson addressed the media to outline the risks. Bouchard described the vehicles as a recipe for severe injury or death. He advocated for state-level changes, including mandatory disclosure forms for buyers and licensing requirements for new operators.

Local jurisdictions are acting independently while state regulations remain in development. The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees passed a six-month moratorium on September 14. The rule prohibits anyone under 16 from riding e-bikes or scooters on township property, sidewalks, and public rights-of-way. This measure followed two critical crashes involving teenagers struck by a pickup truck near Telegraph and Hickory Grove roads last month.

Bloomfield Township police responded to more than 100 complaints and dozens of crashes in the past year. To allow younger riders to return to the roads, the township is launching a four-hour safety course next month. Community Relations Officer Sean Manor said the class covers legal definitions, road sharing, and signaling. Participants who pass receive a certificate and a registration sticker.

Sterling Heights is drafting a similar ordinance to define e-bikes and set penalties. Police Lt. Lamar Kashat stated the goal is education rather than ticketing. He emphasized that the rules aim to save lives by clarifying what vehicles are recognized under local law. Parents are urged to inspect motor sizes and top speeds to ensure their children comply with current Michigan definitions.