Where Can You Ride Electric Scooters on the Sidewalk?

As electric scooters continue to gain popularity, riders and city officials alike are grappling with the question of where they should be used. While many urban areas in the United States initially allowed scooter riders on sidewalks, recent legislation in some areas has restricted or prohibited e-scooters from sidewalks. The regulations for riding electric scooters on sidewalks vary from state to state and city to city, so it's essential to be aware of the local laws and regulations in your area.

In general, electric scooter riders are often encouraged to use bike lanes, if available. This is because e-scooters are classified as a form of micro-mobility, similar to bicycles, and thus should follow similar traffic rules. However, when bike lanes are not present or when road conditions are unsafe for scooter riders, using the sidewalk might be the only viable option.

Many cities have local ordinances specifically addressing electric scooter usage on sidewalks. For example, San Francisco prohibits e-scooter riders from using sidewalks but allows them in designated bike lanes or shared-use paths. Similarly, Los Angeles does not allow scooter riders on sidewalks and requires them to ride in bike lanes or on the street. Conversely, some cities like Seattle and Austin allow e-scooter riding on sidewalks in certain situations.

To ensure that you are abiding by local regulations and maintaining the safety of yourself and pedestrians, it's crucial to check the specific rules for electric scooter use in your city or county before riding. In addition to local websites and city ordinances, many popular scooter rental companies, such as Bird, Lime, and Spin, offer information on local regulations as part of their user agreements.

Being aware of the rules and regulations for electric scooter use can help promote a harmonious relationship between scooter riders, pedestrians, and motorists in shared urban spaces. As a scooter rider, always prioritize safety, follow traffic rules, and be courteous to pedestrians and other road users.

In conclusion, whether or not you can ride an electric scooter on the sidewalk largely depends on the specific regulations in your city or county. As electric scooters become an increasingly common transportation option, it's essential to stay informed about the rules in your area and adapt your riding habits accordingly.