The issue of speeding is something that concerns many states in the United States, and authorities are already taking action. However, this does not only apply to vehicles, as in New York City they have also focused on cyclists. Those who ride e-bikes or e-scooters will have to comply with new legislation that will come into effect on October 24, which will prohibit them from exceeding 15 mph in lanes designated for bicycles. According to Eric Adams, the city’s mayor, the priority is to ensure the road safety of pedestrians, drivers, and cyclists, in addition to highlighting the pride in the bike lane connecting all five boroughs, promoting the use of alternative transportation for New Yorkers.
Additionally, Ydanis Rodriguez, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), stated that his priority is for citizens to travel at safe speeds on the city’s streets. It is important that traffic safety regulations also govern other types of circulation beyond vehicles, with the goal of reducing the number of traffic accidents caused by speeding, as well as encouraging the public to use more sustainable alternative transportation.
Speed limits in the United Sates
One of the main causes of death on roads in the United States is accidents resulting from speeding. This not only reduces the reaction time of the driver but also affects the braking distance, the time and distance of other drivers, and the danger posed to pedestrians. In response to the wave of violations occurring due to this, authorities in many states have taken action, significantly toughening the penalties for this type of infraction and crime. Additionally, they have also invested in road surveillance systems, awareness campaigns, and public education (as if an adult needed to be told about the risks of reckless and over-speeding driving).
Speed limits for cyclists in New York
The issue of speed limits not only affects motor vehicles on the road, but cyclists must also be taken into account. More and more people are choosing a more sustainable means of transportation, so there must also be legislation for them. The City of New York has already taken action on the matter since the presence of e-bike and e-scooter riders has started to pose a problem for pedestrians.
According to Eric Adams, the city’s mayor, ‘As more New Yorkers turn to electric bicycles and scooters to get around our city, New Yorkers have asked us to establish clear and consistent rules to address this issue and protect everyone. Starting October 24, whether you are riding, walking, or driving, we know that everyone will be safe and protected on our streets. We are proud of the work we have done to expand cycling across the five boroughs while establishing clear road rules that will improve public safety and the quality of life for New Yorkers”.
New Legislation
Ydanis Rodriguez, the commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), stated, “We are using all the tools and studying best practices from around the world to ensure that all New Yorkers travel at a safe speed on our streets.” Starting next October 15, a new law will take effect, under which cyclists and e-scooter riders will not be allowed to exceed 15 mph in bike lanes.
This type of legislation is essential to ensure safety on roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes, where all citizens can be victims of an accident. Furthermore, it is also a way to encourage citizens to choose other more sustainable and alternative means of transportation, with the assurance that there is a law that protects and safeguards them.