MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. — Concerns over dangerous e-bike use in Mount Pleasant have police considering tougher enforcement and fines, especially for parents whose children ride them unsafely.
Rising Number of E-Bike Incidents
According to the Mount Pleasant Police Department (MPPD), by July 2025 there had already been 38 incident reports and 13 collisions involving e-bikes. Officers also issued 12 citations and 44 warnings related to e-bike violations.
Parents say the problem is growing in neighborhoods, with children riding recklessly and ignoring traffic laws.
“They will go right across, usually doing wheelies, right in front of my house and cars are having to slam on their brakes,” resident Angela Dyer told News 2. “I’ve witnessed almost every day a child almost getting hit by one. It’s a miracle at this point nothing has happened.”
Parents Could Face Fines
MPPD Public Information Officer Sgt. Robert Blaschke says part of the problem is that some e-bikes being sold are actually classified as mopeds or electric motorcycles — meaning they require the operator to be at least 15 years old.
“If it’s over 750 watts in power and goes over 20 miles an hour, it’s considered a moped,” Blaschke said. “I think a lot of parents don’t even know they’re buying these kids a moped.”
Under state law, parents could be charged if they knowingly allow their underage child to operate such a vehicle. Police are considering fines of up to $232.50 for violations.
Community Reaction
Some parents say they support the idea. “I’m 100% for it if there is some type of fine,” Dyer said. “Their child is not protecting themselves and really protecting the people around them. I believe that is probably the next step in this process.”
Next Steps
MPPD says they will inform the community before any new penalties take effect. The goal, they say, is to prevent serious accidents before they happen.
