News
Public Safety Update
3.9.2026
As electric-powered bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles become more common in our community, the Visalia Police Department has seen an increase in traffic collisions and safety concerns, particularly involving minors riding these devices unsupervised and failing to obey the rules of the road.
As electric-powered bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles become more common in our community, the Visalia Police Department has seen an increase in traffic collisions and safety concerns, particularly involving minors riding these devices unsupervised and failing to obey the rules of the road.
In response to recent accidents and ongoing safety violations, the Visalia Police Department will be conducting targeted enforcement details focused on electric bicycles (e-bikes), electric scooters, mopeds, and electric motorcycles operating within city limits.
Why This Enforcement Is Occurring
Officers have responded to multiple incidents involving:
• Minors riding high-speed electric motorcycles on public streets
• Riders failing to stop at stop signs and traffic signals
• Devices operating without required licenses or endorsements
• Unsafe speeds in residential neighborhoods
• Riders not wearing required helmets
These behaviors create serious safety risks for riders, pedestrians, and motorists.
Enforcement Measures
The Visalia Police Department will utilize maximum enforcement, which may include:
• Traffic citations
• Equipment violation citations
• Unlicensed driver citations
• Parental responsibility accountability when applicable
• Towing and impound of vehicles that qualify as motor vehicles under the California Vehicle Code
It is important to understand:
- E-bicycles and motorized scooters are classified as property and generally cannot be impounded solely for traffic violations.
- Electric motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and mopeds are classified as motor vehicles. If operated illegally on public roadways without proper licensing, registration, or insurance, they may be towed and impounded.
If a device does not have functional pedals, it is not an e-bicycle, regardless of appearance.
Additionally, modifying or tampering with an e-bike to increase its speed is a violation of California Vehicle Code 24016(d).
Parental Responsibility
Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to:
• Verify the classification of the device your child is riding
• Ensure they meet age and helmet requirements
• Confirm proper licensing where required
• Educate them on traffic laws and safe riding practices
Many high-powered electric motorcycles marketed online are not e-bikes and require full motorcycle compliance.
Our Goal
Our goal is safety through education and compliance. However, due to the recent increase in injury collisions and dangerous riding behavior, enforcement efforts will be proactive and highly visible.
We encourage voluntary compliance before enforcement action becomes necessary.
For questions regarding electric bicycles, scooters, or motorcycle laws, please contact the Visalia Police Department Traffic Unit at 559-734-8116.