After growing concerns about e-bike safety on Bermuda’s roads, we’re discussing the new requirements announced by Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport Owen Darrell and whether they strike the right balance between accessibility and public safety.
The issue gained greater attention after police stopped a 14-year-old traveling at 70 kilometers per hour on an e-bike. As argued in The Daily Hour’s Getting E-Bike Safety Right, when these vehicles are capable of speeds comparable to some motorized bikes, the laws and responsibilities surrounding their use need to keep pace with the technology.
Under the announced requirements, riders have until October 31, 2026 to comply with measures including TCD licensing of e-bikes, an appropriate license for riders, at least third-party insurance, and a certified helmet.
We’ll discuss whether these measures go far enough, whether they can be implemented fairly, and the bigger question of how Bermuda embraces e-bikes as a legitimate transportation option while protecting riders and everyone else using our roads.
