Summer is a fantastic time for our young people to get outside and explore New Albany on two wheels, whether it’s a traditional bicycle, an electric scooter, or an e-bike. To ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment of our public spaces, we want to remind all riders, pedestrians, and motorists of important safety guidelines and legal requirements.

The City of New Albany is committed to promoting safe and responsible riding for all. We understand that e-scooters and e-bikes offer eco-friendly and fun ways to get around, and we want to ensure they can be enjoyed safely within our community.

Key Safety Reminders & Ohio Law:

• Helmets are a Must! If you’re under 18, a helmet is required for all bikes and scooters. For Class 3 e-bikes, helmets are required for all ages. This aligns with New Albany City Ordinance 373.13 and Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 4511.522.
• When passing pedestrians, please slow down and make your presence known (“On your right!”).
• One Rider Per Scooter/Bike: For safety and legal reasons (referencing ORC 4511.53), only one person should ride a scooter or bike at a time.
• Know Your E-Bike Class: As defined in ORC 4511.01, e-bikes have different rules based on their class:
  • Class 1 & 2 (up to 20 mph assist): No license needed. Helmet required under 18. Allowed where traditional bikes ride.
  • Class 3 (up to 28 mph assist): No license needed. Helmets are always required. Minimum age 16 to operate. Allowed where traditional bikes ride.
• Follow Traffic Laws: Riders must obey all traffic laws, including staying to the right of the road and riding no more than two abreast.
• Maintenance Matters: Before each ride, ensure your bike or scooter is in good working condition, including brakes, tires, and lights (if riding at dusk or night).

What the City is Doing:

The City of New Albany is currently assessing the City Code regarding scooters and e-bikes to ensure our local regulations are clear, comprehensive, and align with state laws. We will have an update in the coming weeks regarding any adjustments or clarifications to our ordinances.

Safety is a Shared Responsibility:

By staying attentive, understanding, and following traffic laws, and adhering to these safety guidelines, we can all help make New Albany a safer and more enjoyable place for everyone to ride, walk, and drive. We encourage parents to speak with their children about responsible riding habits and the importance of helmet use.