San Francisco E-Bike and Scooter Sidewalk Safety Concerns
“Are e-bikes and scooters allowed on San Francisco sidewalks?”
San Francisco is seeing renewed concern over e-bikes, electric scooters, and other two-wheeled devices being used on city sidewalks, especially in busy pedestrian areas such as Market Street.
According to a recent SFGATE report, San Francisco police have increased traffic enforcement along parts of Market Street, including citations for red-light violations and cell phone use by e-bike and scooter riders. The article also raised concerns that sidewalk riding may be creating a separate safety issue for pedestrians.
Market Street remains one of San Francisco’s busiest corridors for people walking, biking, riding scooters, and commuting through downtown. While the street has changed significantly in recent years, conflicts between pedestrians and fast-moving riders continue to be a concern.
San Francisco Transportation Code Section 7.2.12 restricts bicycle riding on sidewalks, except where authorized. The issue has become more visible as electric bikes and scooters have become more common throughout the city.
The article also referenced recent pedestrian safety concerns involving electric scooters and e-bikes in California. In 2025, a 77-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed by an electric scooter rider at Sixth and Market streets in San Francisco. More recent incidents involving e-bikes in Davis and Orange County have added to concerns about how fast-moving electric mobility devices interact with pedestrians.
Supporters of safer streets have pointed to the need for clearer education, safer riding behavior, and enforcement focused on conduct that puts pedestrians and riders at risk. In dense California cities, sidewalk safety remains an important issue as e-bikes and scooters continue to grow in popularity.
The article also referenced recent pedestrian safety concerns involving electric scooters and e-bikes in California. In 2025, a 77-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed by an electric scooter rider at Sixth and Market streets in San Francisco. More recent incidents involving e-bikes in Davis and Orange County have added to concerns about how fast-moving electric mobility devices interact with pedestrians.
Supporters of safer streets have pointed to the need for clearer education, safer riding behavior, and enforcement focused on conduct that puts pedestrians and riders at risk. In dense California cities, sidewalk safety remains an important issue as e-bikes and scooters continue to grow in popularity.
Legal Insights by Emile A. Davis
It is important for drivers to always keep an eye out for E-Bikes and Electric scooters, as they are becoming frequent roadway companions and deserve our attention to keep them safe . It is also very important for e-scooter riders to recognize that they must follow all the rules of the road and are subject to ticketing, DUI arrest, and other driving offences. California Vehicle Code section 21221 states that "Every person operating a motorized scooter upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle"... "including, but not limited to, provisions concerning driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs." Electric bicycles are similarly required to follow the rules of the road. Vehicle Code section section 21200 requires that “A person riding a bicycle”...”has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle.” Cars, scooters, and bikes must share the roadway and follow the same rules to ensure the safety of everyone.
E-bike and scooter crashes can leave pedestrians, riders, and families facing serious injuries, medical bills, and unanswered questions. If you or someone you love was injured in a California e-bike, scooter, bicycle, or pedestrian accident, contact Dolan Law Firm to learn more about your rights and request a free consultation.