Six Tips to operate a personal mobility device safely in Berkeley

Our goal is to ensure that everyone can travel through Berkeley safely. To support this, we're sharing six tips to help you operate your personal mobility device responsibly and safely in our community.

Berkeley offers many ways to get around without driving. Residents and visitors rely on public transit, biking, and walking-and increasingly, personal mobility devices like e-scooters and electric skateboards.

As more people choose these options, safety becomes even more important. Our goal is to ensure that everyone can travel through Berkeley safely. To support this, we're sharing six tips to help you operate your personal mobility device responsibly and safely in our community.

Wear a helmet

Always wear a properly fitted helmet when operating personal mobility devices such as e-scooters, e-bikes, or skateboards. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in case of accidents.

No passengers

Personal mobility devices are designed for single riders only. Carrying passengers affects balance and control, increasing the risk of accidents for both the operator and passenger.

Slow down at intersections

Reduce your speed and look both ways before crossing intersections. Be aware of vehicles, pedestrians, and other mobility device users. Intersections are high-risk areas for collisions.

Obey signs and Signals

Follow all traffic signs, signals, and road markings just as you would when driving a vehicle. Stop at red lights and stop signs, and yield when required.

Travel with vehicle traffic

Always travel in the same direction as vehicle traffic, not against it. Use bike lanes where available. Riding against traffic is dangerous and illegal.

Avoid sidewalks unless permitted

Do not travel on sidewalks unless local regulations specifically permit it. Sidewalks are primarily for pedestrians. Use designated bike lanes, paths, or roadways instead.

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