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Denver Considers Changes To Scooter Rules For Road Use

DENVER (CBS4)- The City of Denver is considering changes surrounding the rules for electric scooters. Right now, scooters are supposed to be used on the sidewalk but there has been a lot of confusion.

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A proposed ordinance would change that. Instead, it would require riders to use a bike lane or the street if a bike lane isn't available. The exception would be if the speed limit is more than 30 mph.

"The main complaint we hear with these are people are not comfortable with these being ridden on the sidewalk at upwards of 15 mph. And it's understandable. Really, the bike lane is the most appropriate. Obviously we don't have bike lanes across all of our city, so this ordinance allows a few other contingencies on there," said Deputy Chief of Staff Nick Williams.

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A committee approved the proposed ordinance on Tuesday and now it heads to the city council for a vote.

The use of electric scooters has resulted in mixed reaction and multiple injuries. Typically the confusion stems from where the scooters are allowed and pedestrians and drivers feeling frustrated.

Doctors say there has been an increase in injuries related to the scooters and people not riding them responsibly. Riders are supposed to ride with a helmet and only one rider per scooter.

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