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Northbrook police say e-bike complaints rising; enforcement and public meetings planned
Summary
After public comment about a high-speed e‑bike crash, Northbrook police told trustees they receive 5–10 e‑vehicle complaints daily, will enforce state rules, hold public open houses and explore broader local measures including impounds and parent citations.
A public comment describing a serious e‑vehicle crash prompted an update from Northbrook police and village staff about enforcement and community outreach for electric bicycles, scooters and mini-motorcycles.
Resident Scott Bush told the board he believes high-speed e‑bikes are proliferating in neighborhoods and described a recent crash in which an injured teen asked, “Am I going to die?” He said the bicycle involved “went 70 miles per hour” and urged the village to act before someone is killed.
Police Chief Ustich told the board the department has “seen an increased call volume” about electric vehicles and is receiving “at least 5 to 10 a day” complaints. He said the department enforces existing Illinois law while pursuing local options where possible. “Class 1 and 2 e‑bikes that can go up to 20 miles an hour are afforded the same rules and regulations as bicycles at this point,” he said. He called class 3 vehicles and mini‑motorcycles “more problematic,” and noted state rules require registration, a valid driver's license and insurance for higher‑speed vehicles.
Chief Ustich described a strategy that mixes education and enforcement: officers are stopping riders to explain appropriate, lawful use; the department is researching what neighboring municipalities have done, and will consider options ranging from citations to impoundment. He also said some communities cite parents when minors operate illegal vehicles. The chief said the department plans two open houses the week of July 7 to invite public discussion of regulations and enforcement.
Chief Ustich also said the village will roll out a program rewarding children for wearing helmets in the coming weeks. He told the board the department will start with an educational approach and provide warnings as part of directed enforcement operations planned for early July.
Trustees and staff encouraged coordination between police, the village manager and residents and asked the chief to include ideas about traffic safety, sidewalk use and any local code changes that would be enforceable without contradicting state law. The village manager added that some specific vehicles described by residents—mini‑motorcycles without pedals—are prohibited on streets under state regulation.
The discussion produced no vote; trustees said they expect the department and staff to return with policy recommendations and outreach dates.
