By SAVANNAH BARR

s.barr@bradfordera.com

Bradford City Police released a public safety alert regarding e-bikes following a recent crash.

On Thursday, officers responded after an e-bike reportedly struck a pedestrian from behind on the trail behind South Center Street.

The walker, an adult male, was struck by a fast moving e-bike, according to police. He sustained hip and head injuries and was transported to Bradford Regional Medical Center by emergency services. In addition to the driver, a child was also riding on the e-bike, seated on the handle bars, according to police. The driver suffered a minor head injury but declined medical treatment. That person is being cited for improper operation of a motorized vehicle. Neither the driver nor the child was wearing a helmet, police reported.

The incident serves as a reminder, police said, that local trails are shared spaces used not only by pedestrians but also by people using various transportation such as bikes, skates, e-bikes and skateboards.

However, e-bikes come with additional safety concerns due to their potentially high rate of speed. Many can reach more than 20 miles per hour.

‘E-bikes can reach higher speeds and pose significant hazards, especially around pedestrians,’ police wrote on their Facebook page. ‘Please prioritize safety: slow down, wear helmets and be mindful of pedestrian traffic.’

Officers note this reminder extends to the downtown business district, where bicycles and skateboards are forbidden on sidewalks.

Due to ongoing concerns, officers are stepping up their enforcement of these measures.