Seattle University has recently reiterated its long-standing ban on electric scooters and hoverboards on campus property. This reminder, sent to students at the start of the winter quarter, aims to address safety concerns and ensure a pedestrian-friendly environment. While the policy has been in place since at least 2022, many students were unaware of the prohibition, leading to a need for increased enforcement and awareness.
The Ban: What’s Not Allowed?
The policy states that the use of electric scooters and hoverboards is not permitted on any Seattle University-owned, leased, or managed property. This includes all publicly accessible outdoor areas of the campus. Students and visitors are required to dismount their scooters before entering campus boundaries and store them in designated areas such as bike racks. The ban encompasses both rentable scooters from companies like Lime or Bird and privately-owned devices.
Reasons Behind the Ban
Safety Concerns
One of the primary reasons for the ban is the potential safety risk posed by electric scooters. There have been reports of reckless riding, collisions, and near-misses involving scooters on campus. Students have recounted instances of riders speeding, swerving through pedestrian traffic, and failing to stop, creating a hazardous environment for those on foot. One student described a close call in front of Bellarmine Hall where a scooter rider zoomed past them without regard for pedestrian safety.
Increased Injuries in Seattle
Data from Harborview Medical Center and the University of Washington indicates a significant increase in severe electric scooter-related injuries in Seattle since 2018. This rise in incidents has heightened concerns about the risks associated with these devices and supports Seattle University’s decision to prohibit their use on campus. While publicly rentable scooters often have speed limits in place through geofencing technology, privately owned scooters can bypass these limits, making them harder to regulate.
Lithium-ion Battery Concerns
Another factor contributing to the ban on electric scooters is the risk associated with their lithium-ion batteries. These batteries have been known to cause fires when recharging and accidents involving these vehicles can result in serious injuries.
Student Reactions
Unawareness
Despite the policy being in place for some time, many students were surprised to learn about the electric scooter ban. Some students rely on these devices to get to class on time, particularly those with classes located far from their residences. This lack of awareness highlights the need for more effective communication and enforcement of the policy.
Mixed Opinions
Student opinions on the ban are mixed. While some students appreciate the safety concerns and support the prohibition, others feel that scooters are a valuable mode of transportation, especially for navigating the campus quickly. Those who support the ban often cite instances of dangerous behavior they’ve witnessed on campus.
Enforcement and Consequences
Currently, there is no system in place for fining or ticketing individuals who violate the electric scooter ban on campus. However, the university has indicated that repeat offenders who are not students may be subject to trespassing. Public Safety personnel are also authorized to enforce the ban and may ask individuals to dismount and store their scooters.
Alternative Transportation Options at Seattle University
Seattle University encourages students, faculty, and staff to use alternative forms of transportation to get to, from, and around campus. These include:
Public Transportation
Seattle University is easily accessible by public transit. Several King County Metro bus routes serve the college, and the Capitol Hill light rail station is a short distance from the campus. The university also offers the Employee Orca Program which provides a subsidized transit pass for bus, train, and water taxi travel.
Walking and Biking
The campus is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, and many students choose to walk or bike to their destinations. The university provides bike storage options to encourage cycling as an environmentally sustainable mode of transportation.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services offer another way for students and staff to travel to campus.
Carpooling
Carpooling is another option that can reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road and can be a cost-effective way to get to and from campus.
Comparison to Other Universities
While Seattle University has banned electric scooters on campus, other universities have taken different approaches.
University of Washington
The University of Washington (UW) has recently entered into an agreement with Lime and Bird, allowing the use of rentable scooters on their Seattle campus. This agreement allows scooters to operate across campus and provides designated parking areas.
Other Universities
Other universities have also banned the use of electric scooters on campus due to safety concerns and potential for accidents, with some citing the fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.
The Future of Scooter Policy
Seattle University’s decision to reinforce the ban on electric scooters reflects its commitment to ensuring a safe and accessible environment for all members of the community. While some students may find this decision inconvenient, the university emphasizes the importance of pedestrian safety and preventing accidents. Moving forward, Seattle University may need to improve communication and clarity about the scooter ban, as well as explore other options for micromobility that are safe and effective on campus.
The university also encourages everyone to be vigilant and report any suspicious or unusual activities to Public Safety. By working together, the campus community can help maintain a safe environment for all.
