Safe Scooting Starts With you
E-scooter technology may be provided to you by a third-party vendor. It is not being provided by the University of Maryland. Your use of this technology comes with certain risks, and you may be asked to confirm an agreement between you and the device provider in which you assume those risks.
Adhere to the e-scooter operation and parking regulations and follow these tips to protect yourself and others.
Know how to operate your e-scooter
If you are a first-time rider or are unfamiliar with how your e-scooter operates, review the operation and safety information provided by your scooter’s operating company. Veo is the bike and e-scooter operating company that has partnered with the university, the City of College Park, and the Town of University Park. If you are using another e-scooter provider or if you have purchased your own e-scooter, review the instructions before hitting the road.
We recommend test driving your e-scooter at a slow speed in a low-traffic, controlled environment. DOTS hosts Veo test drive events throughout the year where users can learn how to operate electric bikes and scooters safely.
Ride on the road
Stick to low-traffic and low-speed areas and use bike lanes when possible. Exercise caution if it is necessary to cross or briefly travel on a busy road. If a sidewalk is the only way to reach your destination, step off your e-scooter and walk. Pedestrians are unpredictable and vulnerable on sidewalks, and may not be able to anticipate an oncoming scooter.
Always yield to pedestrians
They normally have the right of way.
Wear a helmet
Helmets are available for a discounted price at the DOTS office in Regents Drive Garage. We also host many helmet giveaway events throughout the year. Consider wearing additional protective gear, such as wrist guards, elbow pads and knee pads.
Do not wear earbuds or headphones while operating an e-scooter
Earbuds and headphones are a distraction that prevent you from anticipating other vehicles and pedestrians.
No more than one person at a time should operate an e-scooter
E-scooters are not intended for more than one rider.
Keep your eyes on the road and both hands on the handlebars at all times
You need two hands to maintain control of your e-scooter. Don’t text and drive. Refrain from carrying packages or other items that obstruct your view, prevent you from keeping two hands on the handlebars, or prevent you from maintaining your balance.
Stay alert at all times
Don’t put yourself or others at risk of a collision by operating your e-scooter—or any other vehicle—while distracted. With a high volume of pedestrians and many types of vehicles on our campus roads, we must look out for each other as we traverse our campus.
Examples of safe and unsafe riding practices:
