Full Notification

From the desk of Chief Michal J Rogalski Good Evening As your Chief of Police, I am reaching out with serious concern regarding the recent rise in dangerous and improper operation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) within our community. Over the past several weeks, the Ocean Township Police Department has responded to multiple incidents involving juveniles riding e-bikes in a reckless manner—some of which have resulted in severe and entirely preventable consequences. Two of these recent incidents were so serious that the young victims required emergency transport by medical helicopter to regional trauma centers. In another case, an e-bike operator was involved in a hit-and-run crash, causing significant damage to a motor vehicle and fleeing the scene—placing themselves and others at tremendous risk. While e-bikes can be a fun and efficient way to get around, they are not toys. They are motorized vehicles capable of reaching high speeds and must be treated with the same responsibility and caution as any other vehicle on the road. Riders must obey all applicable New Jersey State traffic laws, including stopping at stop signs and red lights, riding in the proper direction of travel, yielding the right of way, and not speeding! One of the most critical safety components is the use of helmets. Helmets are not optional—they are a vital and proven piece of protective equipment that can prevent life-altering injuries. Yet, time and time again, juveniles are riding e-bikes at high speeds without helmets or any other protective gear. We are asking every parent and guardian to sit down with your children and have a serious conversation about how to safely and responsibly operate an e-bike. Discuss the risks, the laws, and the importance of protecting themselves and others on the roadway. The Ocean Township Police Department will be increasing enforcement efforts throughout the community. Officers will be conducting targeted patrols focused on identifying reckless e-bike operation and enforcing safety violations, including failure to wear a helmet. Warnings, citations, and in some cases, impoundments may result from non-compliance. That said, this issue goes beyond enforcement—it is about partnership. Keeping our children and our roads safe is a responsibility we all share. Ocean Township has always been a community that comes together when it matters most, and this is no different. Let’s continue to work together to protect our young people and ensure a safer environment for all. Thank you for your cooperation, your understanding, and your continued commitment to the safety of our community. Sincerely, Michal J. Rogalski Chief of Police Ocean Township Police Department Additional information can be found here: https://njbikeped.org/micromobility/