Make way for e-scooters
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| E-scooters spotted in Seven Corners several month ago. |
You can expect to see a lot more electric scooters in Fairfax County, as the City of Fairfax has recently launched a pilot program allowing app-based dockless e-scooters, along with other “shared mobility devices” like bicycles.
The City of Fairfax authorized the Lime, Bird, and Spin e-scooter companies to operate in the county, beginning July 8.
Under the pilot program, scooters are allowed on roads and bike lanes but not on sidewalks or trails. E-scooter users must be 18 years old and must obey traffic laws. Helmets are encouraged but not required. Rides are typically $1 plus 15 cents a minute.
The City of Alexandria, Arlington, and D.C., already allow app-based dockless scooters, and while Fairfax County hasn’t specifically authorized a scooter program, there’s nothing to stop a person from accessing a scooter in another jurisdiction and leaving it here.
Electric scooter companies can operate in Fairfax County; all they need is a business license. State law permits them in any area where the state controls the roads.
Fairfax County recently installed three Capital Bikeshares stations in Merrifield as part of a network of 34 stations in the county.
5 responses to “Make way for e-scooters”
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These things are a real hoot, but man, the injuries I’ve heard of are horrifying. I got a lime up to 21.5 mph in Dallas once and I realized all I needed to do was hit a small pebble and that tiny front wheel would make me endo into the pavement.
5-10 years behind other jurisdictions, as usual, and BOS is patting themselves on the back for this one.
I don't think that's quite fair. These scooter share programs really only thrive in an fairly dense urban setting, like DC or maybe Arlington. Old Town Alexanddria for sure. There's a reason a company would be reluctant to come to Fairfax, and it's not Penny Gross.
I love riding on these things, but you definitely have to be careful. Any dip or pothole can send you flying. You got to watch the surface carefully and be ready to brake, or get off. The wheels are small and there's no suspension, low center of gravity. I actually bought my own but may return it, I think if I use them often, eventually I'll fall off of one and get injured.
I saw a story on the news a couple nights ago that a scooter rider (can't remember where it was but somewhat local) was hit by a car who was turning left & the scooter rider was oncoming & went airborne & was very badly injured. It was recorded by a camera nearby. The scooter rider seemed to come out of nowhere. Bad timing I guess. The driver stayed at the scene. Could have happened to any responsible driver. It was green for the driver & he/she was not speeding. There seemed to be a blind spot. I just think it's dangerous to have people scooting around on these things coming out of every turn/corner on these busy roadways. I predict many accidents & injured scooter riders.