As bike sharing programs and dockless electric scooters grow in popularity, a different kind of congestion is being felt as riders occupy sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and roadways. In order to promote safe usage, officers in Tech’s police department have spent the past few months educating riders on the laws associated with the use of vehicles, specifically scooters and bicycles.

The state considers bicycles and electric scooters to be vehicles while in operation, and GTPD is ramping up enforcement. Officers spent the month of September educating users and will now start issuing citations that include a fine.

Signs designating scooter parking areas can be found near most buildings on campus. Helmets, which can be purchased from Parking and Transportation Services, are also strongly encouraged.

Motorized Transportation Safety
• Don’t ride scooters on sidewalks (OCGA-40-6-144)
• Obey all traffic laws, including stop signs (OCGA-40-6-72B) and traffic signals (OCGA-40-6-20)
• Violations of these traffic laws can lead to fines of $130 and more
• Fines are handled by the City of Atlanta Municipal Court, and not the GTPD
• Educational warnings of these laws will be continued until Monday, September 24, 2018
• Enforcement (to include citations) will begin on Monday, September 24, 2018
• Don’t leave scooters in random places - park them out of everyone’s way

Bike Safety
• Obey all traffic laws, including stop signs and traffic signals
• Don’t ride your bike on the sidewalk - it’s dangerous (and illegal)
• Ride in the designated bicycle lane when possible
• Use safety gear including a helmet, front/rear lights, etc
• Secure your bike with a U-lock

Pedestrian Safety
• Don’t suddenly leave the curb/sidewalk and walk in front of cars
• Always use crosswalks to cross streets
• Be aware when walking, especially at night