A big topic of conversation this summer was the number of e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-motorcycles on Casper's streets. Personally, I witnessed multiple "close calls" between kids on them and vehicles. I've also talked with parents whose kids have been injured from riding too fast in areas where they shouldn't be riding at a high rate of speed.
I don't want to seem like one of those "get off my lawn" or "fun-hating" old-timers, but when I see kids nearly get smashed because they didn't signal before turning or didn't stop at a stop sign or stoplight, it bothers me.
It's not just the "e" crowd; I've seen plenty of bicycles nearly get hit because they weren't following the rules of the road, but since the "e" vessels move so fast and there isn't a mandatory training course in place, the outcome could've been much worse.
Thankfully, Casper PD is stepping in to ensure everyone understands the rules and safety requirements for "e" vessels. They're launching an educational campaign to promote safe and responsible riding.
Not all "e" vehicles are rated or treated the same.
Who can ride them, when and where they can be ridden, how fast they can be ridden, and what safety equipment is needed are all issues that need to be addressed. With this new campaign, officers will conduct traffic stops when they see a rider breaking the law or committing a safety violation. In some cases, they may even issue citations.
The goal isn't for officers to be mean or fun-haters; it's to keep everyone involved safe. An accident involving a kid on an "e" machine and a vehicle doesn't just affect the kid and their family, especially if there are major injuries or worse. It affects everyone involved.
Hand Signals You Need To Know When Riding On The Streets
Motorcycle Helmet Laws by State / Fatal Crash Rate
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
