The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is launching a street-safety outreach initiative aimed at e-bike and e-scooter riders throughout the District of Columbia, starting on October 16, 2026, and running until the end of the year. This effort will involve MPD officers directly engaging with both residents and visitors to encourage safe riding practices and address unsafe behaviors.
This citywide initiative will be particularly concentrated in high-traffic areas known for e-scooter and e-bike usage, including the U-Street Corridor, Navy Yard, and Gallery Place-Chinatown. Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll emphasized the importance of understanding and adhering to roadway rules, stating, “Whether you walk, drive, or ride, we all have a responsibility to protect one another and keep our streets and sidewalks safe.”
The initiative coincides with a concerning trend in traffic safety, as the District has reported a 62% increase in traffic fatalities this year compared to the same period last year. As roadway safety remains a priority for the MPD, the department is collaborating with various partner agencies to promote safer streets and reduce preventable tragedies.
MPD is advising e-scooter and e-bike riders to adopt safety practices that benefit all road users. Riders should travel with the flow of traffic, yield to pedestrians, and adhere to posted signs and signals. Additionally, it is recommended that riders avoid sidewalks in the Central Business District and limit devices to one rider at a time. Other safety precautions include wearing helmets, dressing in bright clothing for visibility, using hand signals, and staying aware of their surroundings.
Residents who observe unsafe riding behaviors are encouraged to report them by calling (202) 727-9099 or texting 50411. For non-emergency situations, the public can reach out to 311, while emergencies should be reported by dialing 911. More information on roadway safety can be found on the MPD’s official website.
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