Two boys critically injured in Bloomfield Township e-moto crash
Two 13-year-old boys were critically injured Monday when a pickup truck hit an electric motorcycle.
The Bloomfield Township Police Department said the crash happened shortly before noon Sept. 7 at Telegraph and Hickory Grove roads. The boys, both township residents, were riding west in the crosswalk across southbound Telegraph.
They were hit by a Ford F-250 going south. The driver, a 35-year-old Rochester Hills man, stayed at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.
Bloomfield Township firefighters took the boys to nearby hospitals, where both were listed in critical condition Monday.
“Our principals and district administration have been in communication this afternoon and are working to ensure that the appropriate supports are in place for students and staff at school tomorrow,” said Bloomfield Schools in a letter to parents. “Our thoughts are with our two students, their siblings, and their families. We are holding them close in our hearts.”
Lt. Nick Soley told FOX 2 that investigators believe the pickup driver had a green light. The crash remains under investigation by the department’s Traffic Division and the South Oakland County Crash Investigation Team.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information is asked to call the Bloomfield Township Police Department at 248-433-7755.
How Michigan law distinguishes e-bikes from electric motorcycles
An electric motor does not automatically make a vehicle a legal e-bike. Michigan requires an electric bicycle to have a seat or saddle, fully operable pedals and a motor rated at no more than 750 watts. It must also meet one of three classifications. Class 1 and class 2 motor assistance stops at 20 mph. Class 3 provides assistance only while the rider pedals and stops assisting at 28 mph.
A vehicle without working pedals or with power or assisted speeds beyond those limits does not qualify as an electric bicycle. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources explains these distinctions in its e-bike and e-moto guidance. Depending on its design and capabilities, an e-moto may fall under motorcycle, moped or off-road vehicle rules.
That distinction changes the requirements for riding legally. Motorcycle operation on public roads generally requires a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement. Michigan’s supervised temporary-permit option begins at age 16 and prohibits carrying passengers. The Secretary of State’s motorcycle endorsement requirements explain the training and licensing process.
After a crash, preserving the vehicle, its class label, purchase records and modification history can help establish its actual classification. Michigan Legal Center’s explanation of Michigan bicycle and e-bike accident claims discusses why those details matter when a vehicle’s legal status is disputed.
Get help from Michigan Legal Center
Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles bicycle, motorcycle and serious traffic injury claims.
If you or your child was injured in an electric bike or motorcycle crash, Contact Michigan Legal Center to ask about a review of the crash and possible legal options.
There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.