Two juveniles were transported to the hospital after an e-bike collided with a vehicle at Dike Access Road and Robinson Road on May 23, according to the Woodland Police Department.
Officers responded to the collision at about 4:43 p.m. and found the e-bike had been carrying two juvenile riders. Police said the e-bike failed to stop at the intersection and was found to be at fault for the collision.
During the investigation, officers determined the e-bike was rated at more than 1,000 watts. Under Washington law, an electric-assisted bicycle must have a motor output of no more than 750 watts to qualify as an e-bike under RCW 46.04.169. Police said the vehicle involved in the collision was therefore considered an electric motorcycle, requiring proper registration and a licensed rider.
Because of the riders’ ages, an infraction was issued to the driver’s parents under RCW 46.20.024, which prohibits allowing an unauthorized minor to drive a motor vehicle on a highway.
In a June 1 social media post, Woodland police said the department has seen a significant increase in juveniles, some as young as 10, riding high-powered e-bikes on public roads. Police warned that e-bikes rated above 750 watts are not treated as bicycles under state law and may require equipment such as registration, lights, turn signals and proper licensing.
With summer break approaching, the department urged parents to check the wattage ratings on their children’s e-bikes and make sure young riders understand where and when they can legally use them.
