Newmarket Police Respond to Crash Involving Electric Scooter, Remind Residents of Safety Tips

NEWMARKET — Chief Gregory A. Jordan would like to remind residents of safe practices for operating electric bicycles and scooters in light of an incident that the Newmarket Police Department responded to on Tuesday night. 

On June 9, Newmarket Police responded to a crash involving a motor vehicle and an electric scooter. The investigation revealed that a juvenile male operating an electric scooter left the sidewalk and cut in front of a motor vehicle, causing a collision.

The juvenile suffered minor injuries, and the motor vehicle sustained light damage. 

“Fortunately, all involved in this incident are expected to be OK, but I think it’s important to recognize that the repercussions of this incident could have been far more serious,” said Chief Jordan. “As we see an increase in the number of electric bicycle and scooter operators in town, many of whom are juveniles, we would like to emphasize the importance of familiarizing yourself, or your children, with the best practices for safely operating electric bikes, scooters, or any other similar devices.”

The Newmarket Police Department encourages residents to connect with School Resource Officer Gary Gott, ggott@newmarketnh.gov, if they have any questions or would like to receive more information about electric bicycles or scooters. 

The Department would also like to share the following safety tips courtesy of the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission: 

• Follow local traffic laws. Obey posted speed limits, traffic signals, and rules of the road. Use bike lanes or designated riding areas where required.
• Always wear a bicycle helmet when riding to protect your head.
• See and be seen. Many electronic bikes or scooters are small, quick, and quiet, making it difficult for others to spot you, especially in parking lots, garages and other enclosed structures.
• Expect vehicle drivers and pedestrians not to see you. Slow down and stay aware of your surroundings.
• Use reflectors, headlamps, a bell or horn, and other visibility accessories to alert others.
• Do not make abrupt, unpredictable movements.
• Beware of obstacles. E-scooters have small tires, so objects and uneven surfaces can cause them to stop suddenly, throwing you off.

For more information, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website on Micromobility.