(Sept. 12, 2018) The Portland Bureau of Transportation will host an e-scooter safety event on Thursday, Sept. 13 as part of its ongoing education efforts during PBOT's Electric Shared Scooter Pilot Program.

Representatives from all three scooter companies operating in Portland – Bird, Lime and Skip – will also give away over 500 free helmets on a first come, first served basis. PBOT will distribute safety information to scooter users.

The Shared Scooter Pilot Program is a 120 day pilot program which runs until November 20. Through the pilot program, PBOT created a temporary scooter permit to allow companies to offer scooters for rent. Both during and after the pilot, PBOT will conduct an evaluation of the program, including surveying Portlanders, to determine whether scooters are compatible with the safe, efficient and equitable operation of Portland's transportation system.

By state law, scooter riders must wear a helmet and cannot ride on sidewalks. According to the city code, the scooters cannot be used in city parks. Riders are required to park scooters on the sidewalk close to the curb, so that scooters do not interfere with pedestrians. As a condition of receiving a permit, companies are required to educate riders about safe riding and proper parking behavior. More information about PBOT’s Shared Electric Scooter Pilot Program can be found at www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/e-scooter

What: Electric scooter safety education and helmet giveaway

When: Thursday, Sept. 13 from 10:30 am to 1 pm. PBOT PIOs available at 11 am for media interviews.

Where: Intersection of SW Broadway and Oak

Visuals: PBOT and scooter company staff providing educational materials and scooter companies providing free helmets to scooter users in Downtown Portland.