In October 2018, the City of San Antonio unveiled its dockless vehicle pilot program. These vehicles include GPS-enabled and electric bicycles and scooters. You've probably seen people riding around with these. You may also have seen them abandoned at various locations around the city. To help citizens learn more about the correct protocol for utilizing this method of transportation, San Antonio released information on electric scooter safety. What are the requirements for using them? Where can I/can't I ride? What is the proper way to park these vehicles? Learn the answers to these questions and more by reading the information below.
Electric Scooter Safety in San Antonio
Requirements for Riding a Dockless Vehicle
All riders must be at least 16 years old to maintain electric scooter safety. While not required, helmets are always recommended. This protects you in case of an accident. You will be riding much faster than you walk. So, a helmet just makes good sense. As with other motorized vehicles, pedestrians always have the right-of-way. And never ride up right next to people walking on the sidewalks. Maintain a two-foot path for pedestrians to walk in.
Where to Ride Your Electric Scooter
For proper electric scooter safety, always ride in the bike lane. If none is available, you may use the sidewalk. Again, allow a two foot walkway for pedestrians. Dockless vehicle riders may only ride in the street while in a 35 mph zone or less.
Where Not to Ride Your Electric Scooter
While the City encourages dockless vehicle riding whenever possible, for your safety, they prohibit riding in the following areas around San Antonio:
- Alamo Plaza
- La Villita
- Main Plaza
- Market Square
- Parks (even
trailways or along creeks) - River Walk
Parking Your Dockless Vehicle
Unfortunately, some people just abandon their scooters and bikes on the sidewalks and even in bike lanes. Be aware of your surroundings and the people in it. For proper electric scooter safety (yours and others), use bike racks whenever they're available (except B-cycle parking stations). If no racks are available, park your bike/scooter allowing for 3 feet of clearance for pedestrians to get by. Stay at least 15 feet away from a bus stop or bus flag. Stay clear of any loading docks, ramps, load/unload zones, and handicapped-accessible locations. Finally, you cannot park within four feet of public benches or seating.
Reporting Violators
To help maintain electric scooter safety, the public is asked to report anyone who violates these regulations. If you see a problem, report it to one of the following:
- Bird (888) 602-8389
- Blue Duck (210) 216-3359
- Lime (888) LIME-345
- Razor (833) LAST-MILE
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