As electric bikes and scooters continue to populate the streets of Wisconsin communities, officials are weighing the need for regulations to ensure public safety. Across several cities, discussions are underway about how to manage these increasingly popular modes of transportation.
Potential Regulations in Waukesha and Muskego
Waukesha’s Common Council is considering an ordinance to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters, while Muskego may soon craft legislation aimed at limiting their use. Mayor Rick Petfalski of Muskego noted a “huge uptick” in e-transportation usage, particularly among young people using high-speed e-motos.
Petfalski is concerned about potential accidents involving these devices and believes action is necessary to prevent injuries. “It’s only a matter of time before, if we don’t do anything, someone gets hurt,” he stated.
Recent Incidents Spark Concern in Milwaukee
A recent accident in Milwaukee, where a man was hit by a Lime scooter on a downtown sidewalk, has prompted city officials to reconsider safety protocols. The individual operating the scooter has been charged with second-degree reckless injury, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of rules.
Milwaukee Alder Bob Bauman has called for a review of the city’s scooter program. “I wasn’t particularly surprised, because this has been a potentiality since the day scooters were introduced in Milwaukee,” Bauman remarked.
West Bend and Chetek Implement Restrictions
In West Bend, a new ordinance prohibits individuals over 16 from riding e-bikes on city sidewalks, except on designated recreational trails. Meanwhile, Chetek’s police chief announced a ban on e-scooters and golf carts on county roads within the city limits. West Bend Police Chief Tim Dehring emphasized the need to balance safety with accessibility for younger riders.
“These bikes are heavier and faster than traditional bicycles, which can create hazards for pedestrians when they’re operated on sidewalks,” said Dehring.
State and Local Regulations
According to Wisconsin law, e-bikes are classified into three categories, and both e-bikes and e-scooters must adhere to traffic laws. However, local ordinances can impose additional rules. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation advises checking local regulations before riding on sidewalks or trails.
Milwaukee’s Scooter Program Under Scrutiny
Milwaukee’s electric scooter rental program, which saw 1.2 million trips last year, has faced criticism due to complaints about sidewalk riding. Lime, the company behind the scooters, communicates the rules through various channels to curb illegal sidewalk usage. Kelly Harrop, Lime’s Senior Regional Lead of Government Relations, stated that the company informs users that sidewalk riding is not allowed via in-app messages and stickers on scooters.
Despite these challenges, Mayor Cavalier Johnson supports the continuation of the scooter program, emphasizing its value and the need for enhanced safety measures. “It still has value, it still has importance,” he affirmed, while advocating for improvements to protect both users and pedestrians.
