E-Transportation Devices

Policy Information

Policy Title	E-Transportation Devices
Responsible Office	Environmental Health and Safety Office
Policy Type	Facilities and Property
Policy Number	422
Last Revision Date	2/14/2024

PURPOSE

Binghamton University promotes the safe use of e-transportation devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters as forms of alternative transportation which enhances the university’s goals for a more sustainable campus. The purpose of the policy is to establish guidelines for the safe and responsible usage of e-bikes and e-scooters on the Binghamton University campus (including any other property owned or leased by the University or any of its affiliates). This policy also requires full compliance with New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (NYS VTL) Article 34-D, entitled “Operation of Electric Scooters.”

This policy does not apply to battery-operated devices such as, but not limited to, electric or hybrid vehicles, laptops, desk top computers, iPads, tablets, cell phones, ADA Mobility Devices, etc.

Motorized accessible scooters, covered by NYS VTL Article 34-C, are exempt under this policy and guidance concerning use of those should be obtained from the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities.

This policy applies to the entire university community including all Binghamton University faculty and staff, students, contractors, partners and visitors.

DEFINITIONS

1. e-Transportation Devices-Umbrella term which includes e-bikes, e-scooters, and other electric/battery powered devices including hoverboards, unicycles, single-wheel skateboards, and any subqent similiar new technology.
2. e-Bike – A bicycle with electric assist, with an electric motor of less than 750 watts, and equipped with pedals, thereby meeting the equipment and manufacturing requirements for bicycles adopted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2002. There are three classes of e-bikes:
   • Class 1: The electric motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling. The maximum assisted speed is 20 miles per hour.
   • Class 2: The electric motor may be used without pedaling, but stops providing assistance at 20 miles per hour.
   • Class 3: The electric motor may be used without pedaling, but stops providing assistance at 25 miles per hour. (Note – Class 3 e-bikes are only legal “solely within a city having a population of 1 million or more” thus Class 3 bikes are not legal on campus.)
3. e-scooter –Every device weighing less than one hundred pounds that (a) has handlebars, a floorboard or a seat that can be stood or sat upon by the operator, and an electric motor, (b) can be powered by the electric motor and/or human power, and (c) has a maximum speed of no more than twenty miles per hour on a paved level surface when powered solely by the electric motor.

REGULATIONS

1. Registration Process: All e-transportation devices must be registered. There is no fee for this. The registration process can be found at https://www.binghamton.edu/offices/environmental-health-safety/fire-prevention/battery-fire-safety.html.
2. Operational Areas: e-bikes and e-scooters may be operated on campus roadways and designated paths where bicycles are permitted, in accordance with NYS VTL 1282 and 1284. If a sidewalk or crosswalk must be used to reach your destination, step off your vehicle and walk. Pedestrians are unpredictable and vulnerable on sidewalks and may not be able to anticipate an oncoming e-bike or e-scooter.
3. Speed Limit: Operators must adhere to the speed limits set forth by NYS VTL 1282, which specifies a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour for e-bikes and e-scooters.
4. Helmet Requirement: Riders age 17 and under are required to wear a helmet while operating e-bikes and e-scooters, as mandated by NYS VTL 1286. Additionally, it is strongly recommended that all riders wear helmets for their safety, regardless of age.
5. Parking: e-bikes and e-scooters must be parked in areas that do not impede pedestrian traffic or flow. Parking in pedestrian walkways, building entrances and exits, in front of exit pathways, or other restricted areas is prohibited. Parking is also prohibited in front of fire safety devices such as fire extinguishers, fire pull stations, and AEDs.
6. Responsible Riding: Operators are expected to operate e-bikes and e-scooters in a safe and responsible manner, adhering to all traffic laws and regulations. This includes yielding to pedestrians, using hand signals when turning, and maintaining proper control of the vehicle at all times.
   1. Operators must ride single at all times.
   2. Any operator entering a roadway from a private road, driveway, alley or over a curb shall come to a full stop before entering the roadway.
   3. Operators shall not carry any person as a passenger.
   4. Operators shall not carry any package, bundle or article which prevents the operator from keeping at least one hand upon the handle bars or which obstructs his or her vision in any direction.
   5. Operators shall yield the right of way to pedestrians.
   6. Operators shall not attach such e-bike or e-scooter, or himself or herself, to any vehicle being operated upon a roadway.
7. Prohibited Areas: e-bikes and e-scooters are not permitted to be operated indoors, on sidewalks (including the campus spine) where prohibited by law, or in any area designated as off-limits by university signage. Owners shall confirm with building personnel if any specific storage policies are in place (ex., East Gym).
8. Drugs and Alcohol: Operators must not operate e-bikes or e-scooters while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
9. Lights: Every e-scooter shall be equipped with a lamp on the front which shall emit a white light visible during hours of darkness from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front and with a red light visible to the rear for three hundred feet. At least one such light shall be visible for two hundred feet from each side.
10. Audible Signal Device: No person shall operate an e-scooter unless such scooter is equipped with a bell or other device capable of giving a signal audible for a distance of at least one hundred feet, except than an e-scooter shall not be equipped with nor shall any personal use upon an e-scooter any siren or whistle.
11. Maintenance: Riders are responsible for maintaining their e-bikes and e-scooters in safe operating condition. This includes regular inspections for mechanical issues, ensuring lights and brakes are functioning properly, and adhering to manufacturer recommendations for maintenance and service.
12. Enforcement: University Police and campus officials are authorized to enforce this policy and may take appropriate action against individuals found to be in violation including, issuing warnings, fines, or confiscating vehicles. Students may also be referred to Office of Student Conduct for further action.
13. Compliance: All members of the university community are expected to comply with this policy. Failure to adhere to these regulations may result in disciplinary action in accordance with university policies and procedures.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

1. Use only the manufacturer-provided batteries and chargers, designed and intended for the device.
2. Only purchase and use devices, batteries, and charging equipment that are listed and labeled in accordance with UL2272 or UL2849 (Underwriters Laboratory).
3. Device must be plugged directly into a wall outlet during charging. Do not use extension cords or power strips.
4. You must be present during the entire battery charging process.
5. Do not block exit paths, hallways, or stairwells during charging operations or storage.
6. Do not continue charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.
7. Only charge one device or device battery at a time.
8. Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge at temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or above 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
9. Do not store batteries in direct sunlight or inside hot vehicles.
10. Do NOT ride any device inside any campus building.
11. Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.
12. Do NOT place lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Contact EH&S at 607-777-2211 for more information.
13. Use of headphones or earbuds while operating an e-bike or e-scooter is strongly discouraged.
14. All users must comply with applicable traffic laws.
15. In case of emergency, contact University Police at 911 or from a campus phone at 607-777-2222.

CONCLUSION

In embracing e-transportation devices, Binghamton University aims to foster a sustainable campus environment, reduce our carbon footprint, and promote eco-friendly commuting alternatives. By adhering to this policy, we not only ensure the safety of all members of the university community but also actively contribute to the preservation of our world for future generations.