To stop skaters from dangerously speeding down steep hills — known as "hill bombing" — often without helmets or protective gear, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved an ordinance forbidding it.
Police can now ticket skateboarders for surpassing 10 miles per hour in intersections or being towed by a vehicle. The ordinance also says skaters must ride skateboards standing up while on public property.
"Using, pushing, propelling or riding on a skateboard in a sitting, prone, kneeling or lying position is prohibited," the ordinance states. It also bans riding "recklessly or in such a manner or at such a speed as to cause or threaten to cause injury to himself or herself or to others.''
Two teenagers died from skateboarding injuries in the last year in a hilly part of San Pedro. Councilman Joe Buscaino, who represents the area, backed the ordinance. A on Sepulveda in Sherman Oaks. He was not wearing a helmet at the time.
"I'm not here to ban skateboarding," Buscaino said. "The last thing I want to do is bury another kid from reckless skateboarding."
Councilman Tony Cardenas called for more skate parks to give skateboarders a safer place to go. Councilman Ed Reyes asked the city to post signs near popular "bombing" locations.
L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said he plans to sign the ordinance.
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This article was compiled with information from City News Service.
