To the editor:
I’m in agreement with the City of Peabody with the need to do something about e-bikes, etc. However, my concern is more along the lines of the safety of the driver, especially the lack of a helmet. The following is from an email I sent to the local state representative and a state senator. At the end is the senator’s reply.
I disagree with his reply; I think this is an issue that should be addressed at the state level. It reminds me of when some of hte 360+ cities and towns were addressing the issue of plastic bags. Until the state stepped in, we were having numerous regulations concerning the use of the bags. And why wait until the opening of the next legislative year to start talking about it? Start the thinking/talking about it now, whether it is regarding helmets, or where they can be driven.
Gentlemen, I would like to see the motorcycle helmet law to be modified to include all devices powered by gasoline engines and/or electric motors, so that helmets would be required.
I frequently see “kids” and adults riding such “vehicles,” traveling greater than 5 miles per hour without the use of a helmet. I’m surprised there have not been deaths in the Commonwealth due to a head injury. I’ve seen kids on powered scooters without a helmet going pretty fast as well.
Earlier this week, on a sidewalk in Peabody, there was a young girl, probably about 10, riding a bicycle powered by maybe a gas engine. She was traveling at least 20 miles per hour while heading to school. I could imagine her hitting a sidewalk defect, falling and hitting her head.
Can something be done about this?
Response received by a state senator:
“I would absolutely be interested in helping by filing legislation to address this issue. However, as the state legislation session spans two years, the deadline for filing new legislation has already passed and will not reopen until January 2027. When the next filing period begins, we will certainly consider introducing a bill to address these safety concerns.
“In the meantime, I recommend reaching out to your local city council to explore whether a city ordinance could be passed to help address the issue at the local level. Many municipalities have successfully taken this approach to improve safety more immediately while state-level solutions are being developed.”
Basically, he is kicking the can down the road. If there were a statewide solution, perhaps the local councils could spend their time on other issues.
Sincerely,
William Reilly
Lynn
