In the coming weeks, dockless, electric scooters will arrive in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. The new devices offer a fun and potentially more sustainable way to move around they city, but at Case Western Reserve University, safety is our top priority, and we want car drivers and scooter riders to be on the same page.
Below is some advice to keep in mind when driving or riding one of the new devices.
For car drivers:
- Like bikes, scooters are allowed on the road, and it’s the law that you give them three feet of space when passing.
- Be extra cautious when exiting parking garages on campus and when turning. Many car/bike collisions occur when cars are turning.
- City of Cleveland-permitted scooters will be able to go 12 mph, but privately owned scooters may go faster. Be aware that, like looking for joggers or bikers, scooters will come into crosswalks faster than walkers.
For scooter riders:
- Invest in a helmet; the No. 1 scooter injury involves the head.
- If you have to ride on the sidewalk, slow down for pedestrians, maintain a three-foot minimum distance from pedestrians, and provide audible or hand signals when approaching and passing pedestrians. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- When on the road, be predictable, be visible, ride with the flow of traffic and use hand signals.
- Park responsibly; on campus scooters can park at or next to bike racks. Scooters are not allowed in campus buildings.
Keep on the lookout for area demos and helmet giveaways.
Get more information about scooters coming to Cleveland.
The Office of Energy & Sustainability also will offer an urban bike class and lunch to help students learn the basics of riding safely in the street. This session will be Saturday, Aug. 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Residence Hall Multipurpose Room. Register for the session.