Safety concerns involving electric scooters and young riders sparked discussion during Monday's Mount Carmel City Council meeting.
Water and Sewer Commissioner Tom Meeks told the council he has had several close calls with children riding scooters in recent days. Meeks said one young rider ran a stop sign and pulled directly in front of his vehicle, forcing him to brake hard to avoid a collision.
Meeks said he is concerned someone could be seriously injured or killed and noted that a driver involved in such an accident would have to live with the consequences.
Mayor Joe Judge said Illinois laws governing electric scooters changed July 1 and noted that under previous regulations, riders under the age of 16 were required to operate scooters on sidewalks. He said city officials plan to review the updated law and revisit the issue at a future meeting.
Police Chief Erin Peach told the council that scooter regulations depend on several factors, including the manufacturer's recommended minimum age, state law and the city's local ordinance. She encouraged parents and scooter owners with questions to contact the police department, where officers are providing guidance and printed information explaining the rules.
Peach stressed that children should not be riding scooters through intersections or traveling recklessly on city streets. She said officers have increased enforcement efforts by stopping riders, issuing warnings and, when necessary, writing citations.
The chief also reminded residents that scooters operated on public roadways are required to be registered with the city. The registration process includes a $50 fee, similar to the city's requirements for golf carts and motorized bicycles.
City officials said the goal is not to prevent children from enjoying their scooters but to improve safety and prevent a tragedy before it happens.