Electric Pedicabs: A Safer Ride for Santa Monica? Local Operator Advocates for Change

Описание: Santa Monica, CA – Troy Dalmasso, a local pedicab operator of Beach Buggy with a fleet of five pedicabs, argues that electric pedicabs are safer than human-powered ones. He explains that with heavy loads, human-powered pedicabs struggle to regain speed after slowing down, making operators reluctant to brake for obstacles. In contrast, electric pedicabs can easily regain speed, allowing for safer braking and collision avoidance. He also notes that the only serious accidents on the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path involved a human-powered pedicabs.

On Thursday, August 1, 2024, Santa Monica City Transportation Associates, along with code enforcement officers, conducted their annual pedicab inspections at Santa Monica Beach. This year, they awarded a total of 39 beach bike path pedicab permits, up from 30 last year. Dalmasso was among the pedicab operators to receive the beach bike path permit.

After receiving his approved beach pedicab decal, Dalmasso sat down with Santa Monica Closeup (SMCU) to discuss the safety benefits of electric pedicabs. "Hi, my name is Troy Dalmasso, and I am the captain, my official title, of Beach Buggy, which is a luxury pedicab service here in Santa Monica and Venice area," Dalmasso began.

He emphasized the safety of motorized pedicabs, stating, "We are safer with our pedicabs with motors. We are legal in the City of Santa Monica on every bike path except for one, and I’m trying to organize with some friends to get that changed with city council." Dalmasso cited two serious accidents involving non-motorized pedicabs and highlighted the challenge of keeping up with the increasing number of motorized vehicles on the paths.

Dalmasso elaborated on the safety concerns, noting that non-motorized pedicabs can block traffic and force other vehicles into oncoming lanes, creating dangerous situations. "The safest thing and the best thing for the beach would be for the pedicabs to be motorized. We don't go that fast; we have a top speed of about 15 mph. The main thing is that we can accelerate to get out of the way and keep up with the flow," he said.

He also mentioned the difficulties faced by non-motorized pedicab drivers, particularly when navigating steep hills. "My own sister had to have someone get out of their car and help push her up because she was sliding backward trying to get up a hill," Dalmasso shared.

Dalmasso hopes to see legislative changes in favor of motorized pedicabs and encouraged community support for the cause. "If anyone wants to come out to city council to help support us and get the legislation changed, that would be much appreciated," he said.

Beach Buggy offers luxury pedicab tours with knowledgeable drivers who provide insights into the history and points of interest in the area. For those interested in supporting the cause or taking a tour, Dalmasso can be contacted at 323-733-4222, www.beachbuggy.com.

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Fabian Lewkowicz is an award-winning Santa Monica-based professional photojournalist and press photographer, and the creator of the photo blog, Santa Monica Close Up. With years of experience as a staff photographer for several media outlets including the Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica Observer, and the Santa Monica Corsair, Fabian has captured some of the most iconic moments of Santa Monica.

Fabian's photographs have been exhibited in a variety of settings, including museums, art galleries, hospitals, department stores, banks, fire stations, police stations, commercial buildings, amusement parks, offices, and homes. His photography captures the essence of Santa Monica, from its beautiful landscapes and stunning sunsets to its unique culture and diverse community.

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This story highlights the ongoing debate over the safety and regulation of electric versus human-powered pedicabs in Santa Monica, with insights from a seasoned operator advocating for change.