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Key facts about the new scooter craze

On Behalf of | Sep 1, 2019 | Serious Injuries |

Over the last year, electric scooter companies have worked hard to popularize their product, and it is working. All over the country, more and more people find convenience and fun entertainment on motorized scooters.

Unfortunately, with the influx of riders has also come an increase in accidents. As such, legislators now work to create proper regulations fitting this growing craze.

Classification

Though rental scooters have motors, they are not bound by the motorized scooter laws. These particular scooters have their own category: electric kick scooters. As such, different regulations govern these transportation devices.

Regulations

The state has loose regulations regarding electric kick scooters. Therefore, many cities impose their own local ordinances regarding their use. Generally, these ordinances determine where drivers may utilize the scooters and at what speed. For safety purposes, many legislators around the country consider the effects of regulating the scooters to bike lanes. Different scooter companies have their own requirements as well. For instance, some scooter companies require riders to be at least 18 years old and have a driver’s license, which they must scan before accessing the scooter.

Rules of the road

As with any other vehicle types, scooter riders are responsible for following the rules of the road. This includes obeying traffic laws, signaling appropriately when entering and exiting traffic or lanes, and abiding by speed limits. Parties that do not abide by these regulations may be responsible for any resulting claims. On the other hand, involvement in an accident that is the fault of another driver and results in injuries paves the way to a personal injury claim.

As electric kick scooters become more popular, further regulations will likely surface. For those who choose to utilize the scooters, for either general transportation or recreation, it is important to stay aware of the current regulations in the area.

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