Re: “How to keep safe among e-scooters and e-bikes as you travel” (June 16, Journey):
I cheered once I learn Christopher Elliott’s article concerning the risks of e-scooters. I agree with him that it’s time to take motion in opposition to their use on Seattle sidewalks.
Whereas some see scooters as a inexperienced answer to city transport, in follow, e-scooters are a public security hazard.
Too typically, I’ve witnessed riders weaving by means of pedestrian-heavy sidewalks at speeds nicely above 15 miles per hour. These scooters, that are nearly silent, regularly method with out warning — no bell, no voice, no sign — leaving pedestrians startled and in danger. Weak teams like kids, seniors and people with disabilities are significantly endangered.
Regardless of the presence of designated bike lanes, many e-scooter customers ignore them totally, opting as a substitute for sidewalks — though the scooters have authorized warnings on them explicitly forbidding using on sidewalks. Each pedestrians and scooter riders are struggling elevated collisions and bodily hurt.
The Seattle Metropolis Council ought to take significant steps to handle the hazard scooters pose. The specter of bodily hurt to residents shouldn’t be ignored. I urge lawmakers to cross a complete ban on e-scooters in high-foot-traffic areas or, on the very least, strictly implement their use in bike lanes solely. Public security should come earlier than comfort.
Paula Matthews, Seattle
