Micromobility Vehicles, Obstructions, and Rider Safety Behaviors in New York City Bike Lanes

Abstract

Micromobility vehicles (MMVs) have become increasingly popular, particularly in urban areas where infrastructure has improved in recent years to facilitate their use. The purpose of this study was to observe protected bike lanes in 10 zones of Manhattan, NYC to: (1) describe the MMVs in bike lanes by type, phone and helmet use; and (2) document MMV users’ responses to obstructions. Approximately 1 in 4 of all riders (260/998) were wearing a helmet. Fewer than 2% were observed using a phone while moving. Fewer than 9% of Citi Bike users were wearing a helmet. In contrast, over one-third of non-Citi Bike users were wearing a helmet (228 of 670, 34.03%). This difference was determined to be significant by a chi-squared test (a = 0.05) with a p-value less than 0.0001. Of the 988 MMVs observed in this study, 398 (40.28%) were motorized and 590 (59.72%) were non-motorized. A similar proportion of users of motorized riders versus non-motorized vehicles were wearing a helmet (28.14%, 112/398 versus 24.41%, 144/590). A total of 232 riders (23.50%) encountered an obstruction in their bike lane. Of these obstructions in a bike lane, 82.33% (191/232) were a car/vehicle and 17.67% (41/232) was garbage. A large majority of riders (87.93%) reacted by riding into the traffic lane. These findings suggest that further research and local education, enforcement, and legislative efforts are needed to examine and implement best practices in the safe operation of MMVs, decreasing bike lane obstructions, promoting helmet use, and raising awareness of MMV legislation.

Injuries With Electric vs Conventional Scooters and Bicycles

“…A study in New York City reported that nearly a quarter of micromobility users encountered bike lane obstructions, often diverting into vehicle traffic lanes. 32 This highlights the need for robust and better integrated bike lanes that are suitable for micromobility riders, minimizing interactions with pedestrians and motor vehicles. The enforcement of mandatory helmet laws and speed limits for EVs is also essential, as speed restrictions may reduce the number of injuries.…”

“…Developing micromobility-friendly urban infrastructure may enhance safety for riders. A study in New York City reported that nearly a quarter of micromobility users encountered bike lane obstructions, often diverting into vehicle traffic lanes . This highlights the need for robust and better integrated bike lanes that are suitable for micromobility riders, minimizing interactions with pedestrians and motor vehicles.…”