Electric Bikes and Scooters in Grand Rapids: Safety First

As the summer season approaches, the use of electric bikes and scooters in Grand Rapids is expected to rise. However, city leaders are urging riders to prioritize safety and wear helmets while using these vehicles.

Among the companies offering electric bikes and scooters for road use in downtown Grand Rapids is Lime. According to Ariana Jeske, the assistant director for the city’s Mobile GR department, the number of rides has been steadily increasing, with approximately 150,000 rides recorded in the past year alone.

It is important to note that these bikes and scooters can reach speeds of up to 15 mph. Tragically, in 2021, a woman lost her life due to a brain injury sustained from falling off a scooter from Spin, another vendor operating in Grand Rapids at the time.

To mitigate such risks, riders are advised to wear helmets and stick to the designated roadways. Lime scooters, for instance, can only be unlocked through the mobile app by individuals over 18 years old. It is crucial to remember that each vehicle should only accommodate one person at a time.

Not only should riders prioritize their own safety, but drivers should also remain vigilant and be aware of all vehicles sharing the road, including electric bikes and scooters. These vehicles have the right to utilize the entire lane and should be yielded to, similar to any other vehicle.

In addition, riders are encouraged to use standard hand turn signals to communicate their intentions on the road. By employing common sense and considering the safety and comfort of fellow riders, everyone can ensure a positive and secure experience.

For more detailed safety information and guidelines, individuals can visit the city’s website, where they will find valuable resources to enhance their understanding of electric bike and scooter safety in Grand Rapids. Let’s prioritize safety and make the most of these affordable transportation options while ensuring the well-being of ourselves and others.

The electric bike and scooter industry in Grand Rapids is expected to experience significant growth as the summer season approaches. Lime is one of the companies that offer electric bikes and scooters for road use in downtown Grand Rapids. According to Ariana Jeske, the assistant director for the city’s Mobile GR department, the number of rides has been steadily increasing, with approximately 150,000 rides recorded in the past year alone.

One important factor to consider when using electric bikes and scooters is the speed at which they can travel. These vehicles can reach speeds of up to 15 mph, making proper safety precautions essential. Tragically, in 2021, there was a fatal accident in Grand Rapids involving a scooter from Spin, another vendor operating in the city at that time. The rider suffered a brain injury after falling off the scooter.

To mitigate the risks associated with electric bike and scooter use, riders are strongly advised to wear helmets and stick to designated roadways. Lime scooters, for example, can only be unlocked through the mobile app by individuals over 18 years old. It is important to remember that each vehicle should only accommodate one person at a time.

Safety considerations extend beyond the riders themselves. Drivers on the road should remain vigilant and be aware of all vehicles sharing the road, including electric bikes and scooters. These vehicles have the right to utilize the entire lane and should be yielded to, just like any other vehicle.

In addition, riders are encouraged to use standard hand turn signals to communicate their intentions on the road. By exercising common sense and considering the safety and comfort of fellow riders, everyone can contribute to a positive and secure experience.

For more detailed safety information and guidelines, individuals can visit the city’s website, where they will find valuable resources to enhance their understanding of electric bike and scooter safety in Grand Rapids. Prioritizing safety is vital to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience with these affordable transportation options for everyone.

For more information about electric bikes and scooters, you can visit:
– Lime
– Spin
– Grand Rapids city website