Santa Monica Cracks Down on E-Scooters: Hundreds Impounded from Beach Bike Path

Santa Monica Police Department officers, in coordination with City Manager Rick Cole, impounded hundreds of Bird and Lime electric scooters from the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path on Friday, July 20, 2018. The move comes as part of an ongoing effort to enforce local and state regulations prohibiting motorized vehicles on the beach bike path.

The impounded e-scooters were reportedly abandoned by riders seeking to avoid fines. The Santa Monica Police Department emphasized the importance of adhering to key state safety laws, outlined in California Vehicle Code Sections 21223 and 21235:

- Only riders with a valid driver's license or instruction permit may operate a motorized scooter.

- Helmets are mandatory for riders of all ages.

- Scooters must be operated by a single rider, without passengers.

- Riding on sidewalks or the beach bike path is strictly prohibited.

- Scooters must not be parked on sidewalks in a manner that obstructs pedestrian traffic.

- Riding at night is only permitted if the scooter is equipped with adequate lighting, including a front light visible from the front and sides, and reflectors.

Authorities urge riders to follow these regulations to ensure safety and compliance.