What changes are needed in electric scooter/bike laws to ensure safety and fairness for all road users?

Whenever I'm off to work, I take my e-scooter for a spin around the neighborhood. As I zipped along, enjoying my trip down Main Street, I quickly realized how few designated bike lanes exist in many areas, it's mostly only available at the park. Cars sped past me, leaving little space to navigate safely. It made me reflect on our challenges as electric scooter riders, sharing the road with larger vehicles and pedestrians alike.

The Need for Common Sense Laws

To ensure everyone's safety, there are a few common-sense laws that should be considered:

1. Speed Limits: A maximum speed of 10mph for e-scooters and e-bikes on sidewalks can greatly reduce the risk of collisions with pedestrians. It's important to prioritize safety over speed in crowded areas.

2. Helmet Laws: Encouraging helmet use for all riders, especially in busy areas, can help prevent injuries.

3. Designated Lanes: Cities should expand and improve dedicated lanes for e-scooters and bicycles, reducing the need to ride on busy streets.

4. Clear Signaling: Riders must make their intentions clear when turning or passing. Whether it's using standard hand signals or utilizing electronic signaling devices, it’s essential to communicate with others on the road. This can prevent sudden surprises and minimize the risk of accidents with both pedestrians and vehicles. Just like drivers use indicators, e-scooters and e-bike riders should make it clear when they're about to turn, merge, or overtake another person or vehicle.

Examples of electronic signaling:

Bike Tail Light - https://a.co/d/7ivZSwu

4. Pedestrian Priority: Riders should always yield to pedestrians when on sidewalks or shared paths.

Safety First, Always

Though a few riders may break the rules and cause problems, it’s important not to penalize everyone for the actions of a small group. With education, awareness, and appropriate regulations, we can foster an environment where all road users—whether on foot, wheel or behind the wheel—can coexist peacefully.

Final Take

Riding an e-scooter or e-bike can be an exciting, eco-friendly, and money-saving way to get around. However, keeping safety in mind should always be our top priority. By advocating for smart laws, respecting pedestrians, and promoting responsible riding, we can create safer streets for all.

So, next time you hop on your e-scooter, ride with care, think of others, and support sensible regulations that ensure a secure urban landscape for everyone.

Stay safe, ride smart!