Minister of Interior, Aryeh Deri (Shas), instructed city traffic inspectors to monitor and fine electric bicycle riders who violate traffic regulations or travel in a careless manner.
The decision was made following a meeting between the Minister and professional experts to increase traffic safety, for both riders and pedestrians.
"The move, coordinated with local authorities, transportation agencies and homeland security, will allow traffic inspectors to increase their monitoring of electric bicycle riders, some of whom tend to risk the safety of pedestrians which in some cases, have led to death,” said a statement issued by Deri’s office.
Traffic inspectors will now be allowed to penalize riders or confiscate bicycles, should it be needed.
“The decision is designed to increase pedestrian safety, with an emphasis on the elderly and the victims of electric bicycle accidents. The riders’ lawlessness cannot continue as their irresponsible practices endanger pedestrians without having to pay the price,” said Deri.