Using a micromobility vehicle, such as a bicycle, e-bike, electric or kick scooter, skateboard, or self-balancing unicycle, are a great ways to get around The University of Alabama. However, there are some safety tips you need to keep in mind if you plan to use these types of vehicles.
BICYCLE SAFETY
Bicycle-vehicle and bicycle-pedestrian accidents do happen, and often it’s because the cyclist is not obeying the law.
- Students, faculty and staff who operate or store a bicycle on campus must register their bicycle with Parking Services. Registration is free. Learn more about registering your bicycle.
- A bicycle is recognized as a vehicle in Alabama and must follow the same rules as vehicles. This includes stopping for stop signs and at stop lights.
- Use bike lanes or bike paths when they are available. If no bike lane is available, ride on the right side of the road, as far right as you safely can, and in the same direction as the traffic.
- Do not ride on sidewalks.
- Everyone is encouraged to wear a helmet. This is required for cyclists under the age of 16.
- When riding at night, make sure your bicycle is equipped with a white headlight attached to the front and a clearly visible red reflector at the rear.
- When there’s heavy pedestrian traffic, dismount your bicycle in deference to pedestrians.
- Walk your bicycle in pedestrian areas.
- Secure your bicycle to a bike rack when you’re not riding it. Use a U-shaped bicycle lock to protect your bicycle and prevent theft. Bicycles locked to anything other than a bike rack are subject to removal.
E-BIKES
The University of Alabama has partnered with Veo to provide the UA community with an accessible, safe mobility option for students, faculty and campus visitors. The Veo Cosmo E-bikes can be found at designated bike racks around campus.
Whether you use a Veo e-bike or own your own, all e-bike riders should follow the same rules as those who ride a regular bicycle.
At the completion of your ride, return the Veo e-bike to a designated parking corral or any bike rack on campus.
SCOOTERS, SKATEBOARDS, OTHER MICROMOBILITY VEHICLES
The number of scooters, skateboards, and self-balancing unicycles is increasing on campus. If you plan to ride use one of these vehicles here are some safety tips you should remember.
- Wear a helmet. Head injuries are particularly dangerous for vulnerable road users. Research shows that wearing a helmet makes a significant difference in the event of an accident.
- Look out for vehicles and pedestrians. Many times drivers and pedestrians will not see you until it’s too late. Always ride with caution and look out for others.
- Do not ride on sidewalks or in crosswalks. These are reserved for pedestrians.
- Remove distractions such as cell phones and headphones while using a micromobility vehicle.