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Safety Starts with Every Ride!

A Safety Message: E-Bike, E-Scooter and E-Motorcycles Safety Expectations

Keeping our students, staff, and community safe is our highest priority. That’s why we are reminding families that safety starts with every ride. 

As the use of e-bikes, e-scooters, e-motorcycles and other electric-powered transportation methods continue to increase, so do concerns about safe operation around school campuses and areas with pedestrian traffic.

 

Understanding the Different Types of Devices

  • E-bike: An electric bicycle as defined under Washington State law (RCW 46.04.169), including Class 1 (pedal assist up to 20 mph), Class 2 (throttle assist up to 20 mph), and Class 3 (pedal assist up to 28 mph).  An e-bike motor does not exceed 750 watts of power. 
  • E-motorcycle: A vehicle powered solely by an electric motor that typically does not have functioning pedals capable of propelling the vehicle. These vehicles may have foot pegs, brackets or other supports. Vehicles that do not meet the legal definition of an e-bike, including certain high-speed electric bikes, may be classified as motorcycles under Washington State law. 
  • E-scooter: A two-or-three-wheeled device with handlebars and a floorboard that is powered by an electric motor. These are also known as "motorized foot scooters". 

How does an e-bike differ from an e-motorcycle?  

 

 

To help keep our school grounds safe for everyone, the Selah School District is establishing the following expectations for e-bikes, e-scooters, e-motorcycles and similar devices on District property. Please review these expectations with your student.

 

Electric Motorcycles and High-Speed Electric Bikes 

  • Prohibited on School Grounds:  E-motorcycles, dirt bikes, and modified or high-speed electric bikes are strictly prohibited on all District property.
  • Age and Licensing Requirements: Washington State law establishes age, licensing, registration and other requirements for vehicles classified as motorcycles. E-motorcycles and high-speed electric bikes must meet applicable state requirements, including proper registration and license plates. Their use by individuals under the age of 16 is prohibited. 

See below for a quick overview of Washington State e-bike classifications and laws.

 

  • Enforcement: Vehicles on school property that do not comply with District expectations or applicable laws, may be reported to local law enforcement. Riding privileges on district property may be restricted for rule violations.

 

E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety

  • Safe Operation: Students who ride e-bikes or e-scooters are expected to operate them safely and responsibly, particularly in areas with pedestrian traffic.
  • No Riding on Campus: E-bikes and e-scooters should not be ridden on school sidewalks, walkways, or other campus areas. Once students arrive on school grounds, they should dismount and walk their devices.
  • Yield to Pedestrians: Pedestrians always have the right-of-way. Riders should use extra caution around students, staff and families walking on or near school grounds.  
  • Helmets Strongly Encouraged: Students are strongly encouraged to wear a properly fitted helmet every time they ride. Helmets can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.
  • No Charging at School: E-bikes, e-scooters, and similar devices may not be charged on District property due to the potential fire and battery-related hazards associated with charging electric ride-on vehicles.
  • School Zone Safety: School zones are busy places with students, families, buses and vehicles. Riders should follow all traffic laws, use extra caution, and remain alert, particularly during school arrival and dismissal times.

 Thank you for partnering with us to keep our walkways, drop-off zones, playgrounds, and campuses safe for all students. By working together, we can reinforce that safety starts with every ride.