Pedestrian Vehicles
The popularity of e-bikes & e-scooters is on the rise in North Port! The North Port Police Department reminds the public to prioritize safety when riding an electric bike (e-bike) or electric scooter (e-scooter).
By following a few safety tips, you can make e-biking safe for you and others!
1. KNOW YOUR TRAFFIC LAWS: E-bikes are allowed on roads (except limited access highways), bike lanes, bike paths, multi-use paths and sidewalks. When on the road, bikers must follow all traffic laws, including riding with traffic and obeying traffic/signals.
2.
PROTECT YOURSELF: Always wear a helmet, limit distractions, and never wear earbuds when riding.
3. CONTROL YOUR SPEED AND BRAKE EARLY: E-bikes and electric scooters are quick to pick up momentum and can cause severe injury when at high speeds. Allow yourself sufficient time to slow down.
4.
BE AWARE OF TRAFFIC & PEDESTRIANS: The more predictably you ride, the safer you are. Don't weave in and out of traffic, and always be courteous to pedestrians around you.
5. STAY VISIBLE: Wear bright or reflective clothing and use lights when riding in low-light conditions or at night.
There is a perception that it is unlawful or unsafe for e-bikes and e-scooters to be operated on the city sidewalks and roadways.
Florida Statue FSS 316.2128 specifies that the operator of micromobility devices and motorized scooters have all the rights and duties applicable to the rider of a bicycle under FSS 316.2065.
FSS 316.2128 gives riders the choice to ride on the roadways and sidewalks. Section (10) states: a person propelling a bicycle upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a sidewalk, shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing the pedestrian.
According to Florida state law, motorcycles are street-legal. You need a driver's license to operate one, and it must be titled and registered. While e-motos meet the definition of a motorcycle, they cannot be registered in the state of Florida and are prohibited from being ridden on public roads or sidewalks.
E-bikes are classed differently. According to state law, they can be ridden on public on roads and sidewalks but cannot exceed 28 mph or a power of 750 watts.
State Regulations
E-Bike State Regulations
E-Scooters & Micromobility Regulations
State Bicycle Regulations
Motorcycle Rider Education & Endorsements