Several readers have reached out to WOW to express their concerns with children riding electric bikes and scooters in the center of roads and disregarding traffic signs – making it a dangerous situation for drivers and riders alike.
In Florida, e-scooter and e-bike users have the same rights, privileges and duties as regular bicycle users. According to Florida Statute 316.2065, when riding on a public road, riders should remain in the bike lane. If there is no bike lane, they should stay as close as possible to the right-hand curb. As with bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters are allowed on sidewalks. “However, they must yield the right of way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian,” said Hillsborough TPO Planner Ben Gordon.
Riders must obey traffic signs and those under age 16 must also wear a helmet. Riders who violate these rules could receive a citation for a noncriminal traffic infraction. More importantly, they run the risk of injury – or worse.
“My main takeaway for parents is that they should impress on their children how important it is to be cautious on any kind of bike or scooter, and to supervise them until it is clear that they understand how to ride safely and within the law,” Gordon said. “Teaching them to stay aware of their surroundings and not to go too fast—especially on sidewalks, since pedestrians can step out unexpectedly. Make sure bicycles are equipped with a bell and that kids know how to alert pedestrians that they are ‘coming up from behind.’”
It is important to note that e-bikes are required by law to have a permanently affixed label that contains the classification number, top-assisted speed, and motor wattage. It is also illegal to modify an e-bike to change the speed capability or engagement unless the label is replaced. The e-bike must also operate in a manner so that the electric motor is disengaged or ceases to function when the rider stops pedaling or applies the brakes.
There has also been an influx of dirt bikes in our neighborhoods and along major roads, like Linebaugh Avenue. Per Florida law, all-terrain vehicles like dirt bikes and ATVs may only be operated on unpaved roadways where the posted speed limit is less than 35 MPH and only during daylight hours.
