The City of Greensboro is once again scattering smartphone-app-available e-bikes across the city to put some extra green in Greensboro; but, if you plan to take advantage of this interesting mode of transportation, you should keep in mind that there are plenty of rules that go along with it.
Here are some of the rules the city has provided for the electronic app-driven two-wheeled modes of transportation:
- Some bikes are for kids, but these aren’t: Only people 18 and older may ride Bird e-bikes and e-scooters.
- These aren’t for highway use: Riders are only to use the bikes on city streets – and not even all city streets. They’re only to be ridden in places where the speed limit is 35 mph or lower.
- You have to follow all traffic laws just as other vehicles do, “such as riding only on the right side of the road, stopping at traffic signals and stop signs and yielding to pedestrians.”
- You aren’t allowed to ride the bikes on sidewalks or in parking decks.
- When parking the scooter or bike, pay close attention to the area around you. If you’re parking on the sidewalk, you have to leave at least a six-foot wide clear path for pedestrians. Also, you are not to block sidewalk dining areas, bus stops, handicapped ramps or parking, driveways, loading zones, bike racks or benches.
- You don’t have to wear a helmet – but Bird officials and city leaders strongly recommend that you do.
Here’s one thing that you can do with your electric bike or scooter: You may use bike lanes.
As for pricing, some people get a break.
According to a press release put out by the city this week, “Bird’s inclusive Community Pricing Program offers a 50 percent discount to low-income riders, Pell Grant recipients, select local nonprofit and community organizations, veterans, and senior citizens. Those who qualify can sign up by downloading the Bird app, creating an account, and emailing proof of eligibility to access@bird.co.”
Bird also offers free rides for healthcare workers and emergency personnel. You can sign up for the benefits by emailing a copy of the company’s medical identification card, name, and phone number to together@bird.co.
Eligible riders receive two free 30-minute rides per day.
Rules? Who follows rules in Greensboro?
Big Brother is telling us how to behave. Despite the plethora of make-work new sidewalks, are there any over six feet wide? Can any pedestrian (if you can find one) not walk around an obstacle?
Another thing, riding on the street along automobiles, bike lane or not, is a dangerous thing to do. Many drivers text, face time, surf, and flap their distracted bums while driving. You wanna take that chance? I’ve ridden on sidewalks for years, and will continue to do so. Come and get me.
ditto