Pedicab business owner outlines industry standards and battery safety measures

The St. Augustine City Commission meeting on July 14, 2025, featured a significant discussion on the pedicab industry, led by a local business owner who has been operating since 2013. The owner, who runs a business called Bike Taxi, shared insights from his extensive experience managing pedicab operations at large festivals across the country.

The speaker highlighted the scale of his operations, noting that he manages 190 pedicab drivers at the largest festival, with each bike costing $6,500 to operate, resulting in over a million dollars in revenue. He emphasized the importance of understanding industry standards, particularly regarding insurance requirements, which are critical for operating in various cities. The standard insurance coverage he mentioned includes a million dollars per occurrence and a two million dollar general aggregate.

Additionally, the speaker addressed safety concerns related to lithium batteries used in pedicabs. He explained that he has transitioned to using Life PO 4 batteries, which are the latest in lithium-ion technology and boast a 100% success rate. This change is part of his commitment to ensuring safety while managing a large fleet of bikes, as he oversees over a thousand batteries during festivals.

The discussion underscored the evolving nature of the pedicab industry and the importance of adhering to safety and insurance standards to ensure smooth operations in St. Augustine and beyond. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the challenges and responsibilities faced by local business owners in the transportation sector.