Orange County is looking for a way to regulate electric bikes after their popularity has raised some safety concerns. 'I'm very safe on a bike,' rider Charlotte Durand said. 'I follow the rules of a driver ... I always stop at the stop signs.'However, while Durand may take her e-bike safety seriously, some do the exact opposite, according to Orange County Traffic Committee member Todd Stearns.'Large groups of youths 15-20,' Stearns said.
'RELATED: Orange County mother makes it her mission to preach electric bike safetyStearns collaborated with the California Highway Patrol, Orange County Sheriff's Department and Orange County Parks and Public Works to come up with new e-bike regulations for the unincorporated areas, including south Orange County. E-bikes have been divided into three categories. Class 1 e-bikes can go up to 20 mph and are legal for people 16 years old and younger.