Electric scooters can promote a more sustainable lifestyle but are not safe on every road.
Man Riding an Electric Scooter Hit and Killed on the West Side
According to a KSAT News report, a man riding an electric scooter in the street was hit by a passing truck Friday night.
Police reported the incident occurred at around 9:30 p.m. on Friday, February 10th. A 42-year-old man was riding his scooter on the 9500 block of West Commerce Street when he was struck by a truck traveling in the same direction on its front right-hand side. Officials say the scooter was not properly lit, and the man was wearing dark clothing on a dimly lit street at the time of the accident. He was pronounced dead at around 10 p.m. The truck driver was not injured, and the report did not mention if they were facing any charges for the accident.
Did You Know?
Each State has its own laws regarding the safe operation of electric scooters on public roads.
Electric Scooter Laws in San Antonio
Electric scooters are rapidly gaining popularity in San Antonio, and for good reason — they’re a fun, accessible, and more sustainable way for people to get around in the often oppressive heat.
But, since people primarily rent scooters for one-time use, many don’t know the relevant laws and regulations in place to keep you and others safe while sightseeing. Because San Antonio has some of the most strict laws in Texas (and high pedestrian fatality rates), it’s important to have a basic understanding of them for your next ride.
Who Can Ride?
According to San Antonio law, electric scooter riders must meet the following criteria:
- Must be 16 or older,
- May not carry any passengers,
- A driver’s license is not required,
- Must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Do I Have to Wear a Helmet to Ride an Electric Scooter in San Antonio?
No, you don’t have to wear a helmet. However, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended — 48% of injuries on electric scooters are to the head, often involving fractures and abrasions.
Where Can I Ride an Electric Scooter in San Antonio?
Electric scooters must be ridden in the bike lane when available and on public streets where the speed limit is 35 mph or less. In the absence of a bike lane or safe street, e-scooters can ride on the sidewalk.
Scooter riders are prohibited from riding on trails, creekways, plazas, and parks, including the Riverwalk, Alamo Plaza, La Villita, Main Plaza, and Market Square.
Who Has the Right-of-Way on Electric Scooters?
While riding on a sidewalk, e-scooters must yield to pedestrians and maintain a distance of 2 feet from pedestrians at all times. E-scooters must obey all traffic laws when riding in the street or on the sidewalk, which includes not using a phone or other distractions.
Vehicles and motorcycles should yield to e-scooters as they would pedestrians and bikes when they are sharing the road with them.
What’s the Punishment for Breaking These Laws?
While first-time offenders will likely get a warning, breaking these laws is a class C misdemeanor, which can result in fines of up to $500.
Injured in an E-Scooter Accident? Call Carabin Shaw.
If negligence contributed to your e-scooter accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your injury.
We can help you find out if you have a case for free. Call us at 800-862-1260 for a free case evaluation, or use the live chat at the bottom of your screen to get started. We look forward to serving you.
Contacting a Carabin Shaw attorney is free and does not obligate you to work with the firm.