CHICAGO (WLS) — E-scooters and e-bikes often swerve through people on the sidewalks.
After extensive coverage of the issue over the years, the I-Team is documenting more instances of it occurring in Chicago. We’ve spoken with locals concerned about potential injuries, and we’re investigating what measures are being taken by law enforcement and city officials.
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Smartphone videos have recorded risky occurrences of e-scooters and e-bikes zipping along crowded sidewalks. Some are part of shared programs, while others are privately owned. Shared service providers have systems to curb sidewalk use and, if necessary, restrict access for users. However, the ultimate responsibility of law enforcement for all riders falls to city authorities and the police.
Maribel Martinez from Old Town often finds e-scooters and e-bikes on sidewalks rather than on streets or in bike lanes.
“They could easily cause someone to fall, especially an elderly person who might lose balance, potentially hitting their head. This is a sidewalk, not a park,” Martinez expressed.
Melina Worcester has similar concerns.
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“Living on this street, I’ve had multiple run-ins where I’ve nearly been hit, had to dodge them, or witnessed others being struck,” Worcester shared.
So, what steps is Chicago taking regarding this sidewalk safety issue? The Chicago Department of Transportation mandates that shared operators instruct users on proper uses, employing technology like audible alerts for sidewalk riding. Additionally, scooter firms are required to “take corrective action against rule-breaking riders.”
As for riders who own electric scooters and bikes, CDOT does not have regulatory or enforcement authority over them, but the Chicago Police Department says they do enforce transportation laws with the safety of all pedestrians and vehicle operators as their top priority.
“It should be enforced,” Martinez said.
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Pedestrians say they want the city and law enforcement to do more.
“If they really put in some different rules and regulations on it, I think it would be helpful,” Worcester said.
CDOT added that ensuring that Chicago’s shared scooter and bike programs are safe for both riders and pedestrians is a top priority.
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