New ordinance requires kids under 16 to wear helmet on e-bikes, scooters in Delco

Leaders of one Delaware County township have voted to pass a new ordinance that will impact anyone using electric scooters and e-bikes.

Haverford Township officials made the final vote on the ordinance that will require kids under the age of 16 to wear a helmet when riding on an electric scooter or bike.

The vote on Monday, Sept. 8 comes months after 12-year-old Abigail Gillon and left her friend, Bella Jones, were struck by a vehicle while riding a motorized scooter on the afternoon of Saturday. June 14, 2025. 

The driver stayed at the scene and the two girls were taken to nearby hospitals. Gillon would later die from her injuries while Jones would spend nearly a month in the hospital before being able to go home.

Gillon’s family has been pushing for a new law that they hope will prevent another tragedy.

Township officials said that studies have shown that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injury during an accident.

Now that the ordinance has passed, there will be a grace period with warnings being issued until Dec. 31, 2025.

During the grace period, officials hope to have enough time to educate the public about the new rules.

Then, starting on Jan. 1, 2026, any child under the age of 16 on an electric scooter or e-bike will get a $25 violation.