A 28-year-old man faces multiple charges after an e-motorcycle collided with a pickup truck on Friday, Aug. 21, at the intersection of Southeast Rasmussen Boulevard and Southeast 14th Street, according to a news release by the Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD).
According to the Battle Ground Police Department, witnesses told investigators the e-motorcycle was traveling eastbound on Southeast Rasmussen Boulevard behind a black Ford F-150. The rider was seen weaving within the lane before attempting to pass the truck on the right. As the e-motorcycle attempted to pass, the Ford turned right onto Southeast 14th Street, and the e-motorcycle struck the truck’s right rear.
The e-motorcycle operator, identified by police as David Allan Minch, 28, was transported to a hospital with minor injuries.
Minch faces charges of felony DUI, reckless driving, first-degree driving while license suspended and violation of an ignition interlock requirement, according to BGPD.
Investigators found no evidence of wrongdoing by the driver of the truck, police said. The driver cooperated with the investigation and was released from the scene.
The collision comes as the police department says it has seen growing community interest and concern surrounding e-motorcycles and e-bikes.
According to BGPD, the e-motorcycle involved in the collision was not street legal and was being improperly operated on a public roadway.
The department said the incident highlights questions surrounding the safe and legal operation of the increasingly popular vehicles.
“BGPD is developing educational resources to help riders, parents, and community members better understand the rules,” the department said in a statement. “Additional information and resources will be shared as they become available.”
In the meantime, the department encouraged e-motorcycle and e-bike owners to understand their vehicle’s classification and legal requirements before riding. BGPD also encouraged riders to use appropriate protective equipment, exercise caution and understand where their vehicles may legally be operated.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk with young riders about safe and appropriate operation of e-vehicles, according to BGPD.
Questions regarding e-motorcycles and e-bikes can be submitted to the Battle Ground Police Department through the city’s website, cityofbg.org/ContactUs-PD.
