Bird Scooter helmet regulations not enforced for riders 16 years and older

Steve Sapp, City of Columbia Director of Community relations said riders of bird scooters have to wear a helmet if they are 16 years and younger.

Leaders said riders of bird scooters are to follow city laws as if the scooters are bicycles, but do have certain restrictions.

“They are not allowed on sidewalks in the downtown business district. They are not allowed on sidewalks and trails and parks,” Sapp said.

City ordinance said helmets are not required for riders that are older than 16, but according to the user agreement provided by Bird Rides, Inc. riders must be 18 years or older to rent them.

“If they are sixteen of age and under they are required to wear a helmet,” Sapp said.

City leaders said if someone were to rent a scooter and rent one for a rider under the age of 16, police can issue a citation for the minor not wearing a helmet, but there is no law or summons to give a citation that the minor was under the age of eighteen and using Bird Rides Inc. product.

The city confirmed they are not doing anything to enforce a rider who has a helmet using bird scooters.

One Columbia rider, Nicholas Bowen said he no longer needs to ride a taxi because of them.

“I think it’s really handy, especially if I need to go across town, it’s a lot cheaper than a taxi,” Bowen said.

Bird Rides, Inc. said riders must obey helmet laws in the area the scooters are used.

ABC 17 News reached out to Bird Rides, Inc. regarding their product being used around the city without a permit or license and they have not yet responded.