OBSERVER Photo by Christopher Blakeslee
Donald Lee States Jr. of Jamestown, uses a motorized electric tricycle as his only mode of transportation. However, he alleges that it’s not safe to use on the streets and he’s been hit 11 times by motor vehicles.
JAMESTOWN — For one local cyclist, riding his electric, three-wheeled bicycle is his only way to get around independently.
Donald Lee States Jr., 68, of Jamestown, says he’s been hit 11 times by automobiles, had two bikes destroyed and can’t get service sometimes at drive-through fast-food windows.
“I’m old and partially disabled,” he said. “I depend on this bike to get me to my appointments and to get food. But it’s not safe. We (cyclists) must use the streets and follow all the normal traffic laws. However, the state hasn’t adjusted the traffic signal lights and sometimes we don’t trip them. Cars will blow around me, and one car backed up right over me at a stop light, near Farm Fresh on Third Street. I’ve been hit 11 times so far.”
States said he’s contacted the managers at two area franchised restaurants and is waiting to hear back regarding the denial of service at their respective drive-through windows.
State law states riders can operate electric scooters or bicycles with electric assist devices on highways with a posted speed limit of 30 miles per hour or less. Local governments can further regulate the time, place, and manner the devices are used. They can’t be used on a sidewalk except as authorized by local law or ordinance.
In New York, e-bikes are treated like traditional bicycles. That means there is no need for registration, licensing, or insurance like motor vehicles. E-bikes have to follow the same road rules as regular bicycles. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes can use roads with speed limits of 30 mph or less, including bike lanes and some adjacent bike paths.
States owns an Addmotor, three-wheeled, 750 watts bike which retails between $2,699 -$2,999.
“I spent a lot of money on this bike,” he said. “Then to be hit and refused service at a drive-thru, but still be expected to operate like a motor vehicle is unfair. I get that there’s kids and immature people riding these bikes around town, but I’m not one of them. I’m 68 years old. I can’t really cook for myself, and it’s hard for me to get around.”