As e-scooters and other mobility devices become more popular around campus, Emory University is developing a policy to help keep everyone safe.

The policy will offer guidance regarding where e-scooters, e-bikes, bicycles, skateboards and other sharable mobility devices can be used on campus. While the policy is being developed, Emory has designated a portion of Asbury Circle as a dismount zone for e-scooters, meaning riding the devices is not allowed beyond that point. 

Over the past several months, four people in metro Atlanta were struck and killed while riding e-scooters. The city of Atlanta adopted regulations in January 2019 and again in August concerning shareable mobility devices. These regulations include:

• No riding on sidewalks.
• Ride in the bike lane or street.
• No riding e-scooters from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.
• Ride one person per device.
• No cell phone use while operating an electronic mobility device.
• Follow all traffic laws.

In addition, Emory recommends the following safety measures:

• Wear a helmet.
• Pay attention to where you’re riding.
• Yield to others.
• Park in a manner that does not block access to buildings or walkways for others. 

Representatives from Campus Life, Emory Policy Department, Office of General Counsel and Transportation and Parking Services are working on the policy that will allow students, faculty and staff to traverse campus in a safe and efficient manner.

“Emory remains a strong supporter of alternative transportation and sustainability measures that give our community flexibility when traveling to and around campus,” says Suzanne Onorato, assistant vice president of Campus Life. “The safety of our community is our top priority and there are rules of the road we all must follow.”

Emory will provide updates as they become available.