Scooters, Pedestrians, and Holiday Traffic: Staying Safe Together

As e-scooters, e-bikes, and other micromobility devices become a familiar sight across Florida, holiday travel is a good time to brush up on the rules of the road. State law requires riders to be at least 16 years old for most electric scooters and e-bikes, and anyone under 16 must wear a helmet. The good news is that these devices share many of the same rights and responsibilities as bicycles, so there’s no need for a license, registration, or insurance to ride.

With holiday traffic, crowded streets, and unpredictable weather, safety becomes even more important. Lights, reflective clothing, slower speeds, and helmets, even for adults, are smart choices. Planning your route ahead of time can help avoid delays and make sure you’re traveling on protected lanes. Except for mopeds, all classes of e-bikes and scooters are allowed on sidewalks, trails, multi-use paths, bike lanes, separated lanes, and shared lanes, giving riders plenty of options to get around safely.

This time of year also brings shorter days, meaning it gets darker earlier. More people are off from work and school and out walking, enjoying the holiday season, and drivers are often cruising neighborhoods to look at festive light displays. That makes visibility especially important for riders and pedestrians alike, and it’s another reason to use lights and reflective gear whenever possible. And drivers need to pay special attention to the road.

Drivers play a big role in keeping the roads safe during the busy season. Florida’s major corridors, including I-275, I-75, I-4, and the Turnpike, will see heavy traffic. Expect sudden lane changes and last-minute exits. Check your route for potential delays and leave plenty of time to arrive at your destination. Impaired driving tends to spike during the holidays, so exercising extra caution and maintaining a safe distance from erratic drivers is key. Designate a driver, utilize transit, or call a ride if you are impaired. From Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles: Drive Sober or Game Over. It’s also smart to keep a phone charger, portable battery, and flashlight handy in case of a breakdown. Above all, motorists should remember to be courteous and watch out for bicyclists and pedestrians who share the road.

Whether you’re riding, walking, or driving, staying alert and prepared makes holiday travel smoother and safer for everyone.