By Ann Cooper
In recent discussions surrounding the dangers posed by e-bike and e-scooter riders to pedestrians, one West Side Rag reader offered a personalized perspective that sheds light on the severity of the issue. Doug Garr, an experienced skydiver with over 2,240 jumps under his belt, expressed genuine concern about being hit by an electric bicycle while crossing a bike lane.
Curiosity piqued, an email inquiry was made to verify Garr’s claim. Surprisingly, Garr confirmed that his jump total was indeed accurate and he even downplayed it by current standards. His fascination with skydiving began during his time at Syracuse University, where he roomed with a skydiving instructor. Despite reaching a septuagenarian age, Garr continues to actively skydive and states that many others within his community boast even higher jump counts.
While Garr didn’t share any harrowing experiences from his skydiving career, he did emphasize his near misses with e-bikes. To enhance his visibility and reduce risk, Garr now wears a yellow vest when walking at night, especially along his route from the 96th Street garage to his apartment via West End Avenue. He believes that the cyclists themselves are also vulnerable, particularly delivery persons who often disregard traffic rules and safety measures.
This anecdote highlights the urgent need to address the reckless behavior of e-bike and e-scooter riders in a comprehensive manner. With the rise of these alternative modes of transportation, it is essential to consider not only the safety of pedestrians but also the well-being of those utilizing these vehicles. Adequate regulations, rider education, and infrastructure improvements are necessary to mitigate the risks associated with these forms of transportation.
As we explore the topic further, it is important to acknowledge the benefits that comment sections can provide in augmenting news stories. Readers’ contributions can add valuable information, correct inaccuracies, and expand on existing knowledge. The example of readers promptly addressing and providing updates regarding Upper West Side public restrooms serves as a reminder of the collective wisdom and engagement of the community.
In our upcoming columns, we will delve into the challenges of moderation and facilitating civil discourse. For now, let us focus on leveraging comment sections as a resource for enhancing the accuracy and depth of news stories. By actively involving readers, we can foster a more inclusive and well-informed society. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on this topic.
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The e-bike and e-scooter industry is experiencing significant growth, with more and more people opting for these alternative modes of transportation. According to market forecasts, the global e-bike market is expected to reach a value of $46.04 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2019 to 2026. Similarly, the e-scooter market is projected to witness a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period 2019-2026, reaching a market value of $42.8 billion by 2026.
However, with the increase in popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters, there are growing concerns about the safety of pedestrians and riders alike. The anecdote shared by Doug Garr, an experienced skydiver, highlights the severity of the issue. Garr’s near misses with e-bikes while walking in bike lanes have prompted him to take safety precautions such as wearing a yellow vest for better visibility.
Not only are pedestrians at risk, but e-bike and e-scooter riders themselves are vulnerable, particularly delivery persons who often disregard traffic rules and safety measures. This raises the need for comprehensive regulations, rider education, and infrastructure improvements to ensure the safety of all road users.
In order to address the reckless behavior of e-bike and e-scooter riders, it is important to strike a balance between promoting sustainable modes of transportation and ensuring public safety. This requires a collaborative effort from government authorities, transportation companies, and riders themselves.
By actively engaging in the ongoing conversation and leveraging comment sections, readers can contribute valuable insights, provide updates, and help expand on existing knowledge. This collective wisdom and engagement of the community can contribute to a more inclusive and well-informed society.
To stay updated and be a part of these discussions, readers can subscribe to the West Side Rag’s FREE email newsletter, which provides regular updates and enables continued engagement with the community.
For more information on the e-bike and e-scooter industry and related issues, you can explore the following links:
– Electric Bike Market
– E-Scooter Market
Stay tuned for upcoming columns where we will delve into the challenges of moderation and facilitating civil discourse, focusing on leveraging comment sections as a resource for enhancing the accuracy and depth of news stories.