As bike sharing programs and dockless electric scooters grow in popularity, a different kind of congestion is being felt as riders occupy sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and roadways with multiple means of conveyance. In order to promote safe usage, officers in Tech’s police department have spent the past few months educating riders on the laws associated with the use of vehicles, specifically scooters and bicycles.

The state considers bicycles and electric scooters to be vehicles while in operation, and GTPD is ramping up enforcement. Officers will continue its approach of educating users until Sept. 24, 2018, when they will start issuing citations that include a fine.

“Because we are committed to the safety of everyone on campus, and the risk associated with the unsafe operation of alternative transportation, we have begun enforcing Georgia law for these vehicles, including operating them on sidewalks and disregarding traffic signals,” said Georgia Tech Chief of Police Rob Connolly.

“While we encourage the use of new and alternative forms of transportation, safety is our main concern," he said. "In our conversations with students about scooters, we emphasize three things: don’t drive on sidewalks, obey all traffic laws, and be considerate where you park it."

Signs designating scooter parking areas can be found near most buildings on campus. Helmets, which can be purchased from Parking and Transportation Services, are also strongly encouraged.

Fines — which start at $130 plus court costs — are paid to the City of Atlanta and not a source of revenue for Georgia Tech.