Lima: Electric Motorcycle Riders Continue to Invade Bike Lanes Despite New Fines

Electric motorcycle riders in Lima, Peru, are persistently defying traffic regulations by using dedicated bike lanes, even after the National Police announced new penalties. Despite the implementation of a S/550 fine on August 2, riders continue to occupy lanes meant exclusively for bicycles and personal mobility devices.

Footage captured by ATV Noticias on August 3 revealed numerous electric motorcycles navigating the bike lane on Arequipa Avenue towards Kennedy Park in Miraflores. Many riders were observed without helmets or essential safety gear, disregarding the inherent risks. The report also highlighted a significant lack of traffic wardens and police presence to address these violations.

The National Police categorize electric motorcycles under category L, requiring them to use regular roadways like conventional motorcycles. They must also possess registration plates, SOAT (compulsory traffic accident insurance), vehicle identification cards, and appropriate driver's licenses if their top speed exceeds 25 km/h. The S/550 fine for using bike lanes can escalate with other infractions, such as driving without a license (up to S/2,750) or lacking SOAT and registration plates (S/660 each).

This ongoing issue points to a broader challenge in enforcing traffic laws in Lima, where the continued disregard for designated lanes by electric motorcycle riders poses a safety hazard and disrupts the flow of traffic for authorized users.