The Tallahassee City Commission recently started a three month E-Scooter Pilot Project that could result in the operation of up to 1,000 e-scooters on the roads and sidewalks.
City officials have until October 15, 2019 to decide whether the city will adopt the program and are soliciting feedback from the public.
Many are concerned that the program will lead to an increase in serious personal injury due to inexperienced riders trying out e-scooters for the first time.
Others believe that Tallahassee has already witnessed an increase in pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents and fatal car accidents. Why would the city choose to add another mode of transportation that could potentially increase the number of accidents?
What Are the Florida Laws for E-Scooters?
E-scooters must follow the same rules of the road as cyclists. Fla. Stat. 316.2065 lists several bicycle regulations:
For riding in the road or in an bicycle lane:
- If there is a bicycle lane, then riders must use that lane.
- If no lane is marked for bicycle use, then riders must ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
- Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way highway with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable.
For riding on the sidewalk:
- Riders shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.
Are helmets required to ride an e-scooter?
Helmets are strongly suggested. However, they are not required if a rider is above the age of 16.
What are the operating hours for e-scooters?
There are no restrictions on hours during the E-Scooter Pilot Project.
How fast can e-scooters go in Tallahassee?
During the pilot project, the maximum speed for e-scooters will be 15 miles per hour.
Contact Our Tallahassee Personal Injury Firm
If you have any questions about your personal injury or car accident claim, then do not hesitate to contact Milles Law today at (855) 553-3310 for a free initial consultation. Similarly, if you are involved in an accident due to the E-Scooter Pilot Project, then attorney Eric Milles will take a look at your case. Feel free to contact us online and tell us about your accident.
Your Rights. Your Lawyer. Your Personal Injury Law Firm.