To the Editor:
Good morning Gentlemen, I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing you today to ask what is Cape May County’s law on e-scooters and e-bikes riding on sidewalks? Is this enforced and if so, what are the fines/penalties? According to the law, they are all considered motor vehicles. Last I checked, motor vehicles are not permitted on sidewalks.
I am a year-round homeowner who lives on Schellenger’s Landing. Because I live in no-man’s-land between Lower and Cape May, I am writing to both mayors.
Two days ago while walking my dog across Schellenger’s Landing Bridge, an e-scooter came up on me from behind at full throttle (15mph+). Rather than slow down or say “excuse me,” he tried to shoot of what was left of the gap on the sidewalk on our left and hit my dog. He came so fast that neither my dog nor I sensed him. Dog yelped, I shouted a few choice words. He looked back at us and then continued full throttle on his way to work at Lobster House Schooner (per his T-shirt).
This could easily be classified as a hit-and-run. Be aware, had my dog alerted me and I turned around in time, I instinctually would have thrown an elbow in his face. He and his scooter would have ended up in 8 a.m. bridge traffic and I would have ended up with a broken arm.
I posted the incident on FB and the overwhelming response was “these things are an escalating menace and don’t belong on the sidewalk.” Zach, my on-line name is Cecelia … same person who tagged you, so you are already aware of the story.
What can be done to stop the madness and enforce strict penalties? If underage, fine the parents. Far as I’m concerned, first time, $200 fine + 15 hours community service. Second time, confiscate the e-scooter or e-bike.
It’s well past the time that this issue is addressed in a forceful and meaningful way.
Kathleen Hayes
Cape May
