Tel Aviv police on Wednesday 20 Adar launched an aggressive electric bicycle safety campaign. The electric bicycles have become increasingly commonplace in the city and around Israel, and police are determined to enforce new laws intended to address safety issues.

Dozens of bicycles that do not conform to safety standards were confiscated by police. This includes bicycles capable of traveling over 25 KPH (15.5 MPH). In addition, police are enforcing the law that prohibits using a cellular phone while operating a bicycle, compelling riders to wear a helmet, and prohibiting riding on sidewalks.

Police explain the campaign was launched in response to the increasing number of cases in which pedestrians have been struck or filed complaints about the electric bicycles on sidewalks.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)