In a swift response to a tragic incident, the local government of Key Biscayne has implemented a 60-day ban on e-bikes and other motorized transportation devices such as e-scooters and hoverboards, except for on Crandon Boulevard, which remains under county control. The emergency ban was decided upon after a 66-year-old woman, Megan Andrews, died following a collision with a 12-year-old on an e-bike. This measure took effect immediately following an emergency meeting on Friday.
The Key Biscayne council convened urgently in light of the accident, which took place on a dark stretch of Hampton Lane near Woodcrest Road, sparking outcry from the community. According to an article from Local10, Key Biscayne Mayor Joe Rasco argued for the importance of the ban, stating in a video, "For the safety and wellbeing of our residents, I implore parents of children with e-bikes and scooters to work with us and comply with this order."
During the packed meeting, emotions ran high as the ban received both support and opposition. In an interview NBC Miami reported a resident's mention of Andrews not wearing a helmet was met with boos, indicating the community's tensions and grief.
After the temporary ban, the council will reconvene to determine if a permanent ban is warranted. The village officials, hampered by state preemptions, have previously attempted to enforce safety rules on these micro-mobility devices. A resident expressed frustration with state regulations, as quoted by NBC Miami, saying, "You’re faced with the ‘free state of Florida’ telling you that you don’t have the power to regulate them."
Violators of the ban are to initially receive a warning, followed by a fine starting at $250, in an effort to enforce compliance and prevent future tragedies.
