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Back to Policy Section VI: General Administration
Section VI: General Administration

Policy Number: VI-31.00(A)

University of Maryland Policy and Procedures for the Wearing of Helmets While Riding a Micromobility Vehicle on University Property

(Approved by the President on an interim basis )

I. POLICY

The safety of each person traveling across the University of Maryland, College Park (“the University”) campus is paramount, consistent with the University’s mission of teaching, research, and public service. It is the policy of the University that Users of Micromobility Vehicles on campus property must wear Helmets while the vehicle is being operated.

The University is committed to the safety of everyone traveling across our campus, and Helmet wearing is a critical component of safety when operating a Micromobility Vehicle. Helmets significantly reduce the likelihood of brain and facial injuries.

II. APPLICABILITY

This policy applies to all members of the University community (students, faculty, and staff) and any other person who operates or rides on a Micromobility Vehicle on University property.

III. DEFINITIONS

  1. “Micromobility Vehicle” includes pedal and electric bikes, scooters (manual and electric), skate/hoverboards (manual and electric), unicycles (manual and electric) and other vehicles that are powered either manually or by electricity/battery/solar.
  2. “Helmet” is a Consumer Products Safety Commission-approved bicycle helmet.
  3. “User” is a person who is either operating or riding as a passenger on a Micromobility Vehicle.

IV. PROCEDURES REGARDING THE WEARING OF APPROVED HELMETS ON UNIVERSITY ROADWAYS AND BIKEWAYS

  1. An approved Helmet must be worn at all times while operating a Micromobility Vehicle on University property.
  2. Failure to wear a Helmet will result in:
    1. Referral to the Office of Student Conduct for undergraduate and graduate students;
    2. Referral to appropriate management for faculty and staff members; or
    3. A verbal warning for those unaffiliated with the University.
  3. The Department of Transportation Services has resources for helmet wearers, including fitting guidance and discounts.