A proposal to lift a ban on electronic bicycles in Key Biscayne has failed, keeping in place a measure that’s been active for more than a year and a half.
The emergency ban was enacted following the 2024 death of 66-year-old Megan Andrews, who collided with a 12-year-old riding an e-bike in a dark intersection. Her family and neighbors urged the village council not to repeal the measure, citing safety concerns for children, the elderly, and the broader community.
During Tuesday night’s council meeting, residents spoke out against lifting the restrictions.
“I can envision some bad accidents as impatient car drivers try to get around them,” one said.
Only one person spoke in favor of ending the ban, arguing, “Bans will not solve the problem. Bans will not keep people from trying to get around doing what they do.”
The village police chief had recommended changes to the ordinance, suggesting e-bikes be allowed for adults under responsible use with limits on speed, age, and designated roads. But the council voted against the proposal in a 4–3 decision.
The debate comes during a wave of deadly e-bike and e-scooter crashes across Miami-Dade County. Just Tuesday morning, the Florida Highway Patrol said a Ford sedan struck an e-bike carrying two riders. One died, and the other remains critically injured.
Last Friday, a 14-year-old on an electric dirt bike collided with a cyclist on the Rickenbacker Causeway, killing the cyclist. Earlier this month, an electric scooter rider ran a red light and was killed in a crash with another car.
Officials say e-bikes are still permitted on Crandon Boulevard, which is operated by the county.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
