Licensed drivers are supposed to pay attention to all kinds of potential hazards on the road. Pedestrians, animals, downed tree limbs and branches, vehicle parts, and items that flew off the back of a truck, and, of course, other vehicles. But what exactly constitutes a vehicle that can legally be operated on public roads?
In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of self-propelled vehicles such as electric scooters, electric unicycles, and electric bikes. These modes of transportation offer a fun and cheap way to get around, especially for short trips. However, many people are unsure of the regulations surrounding these vehicles and whether they can be legally operated on public roads and sidewalks.
The Pennsylvania Vehicle Code does not specifically reference terms like e-scooter, moped, or Segway, making it difficult for the average person to understand the regulations for these devices. For example, an electric personal assistive mobility device (Segway) is described in the vehicle code as a self-balancing, two-nontandem-wheeled device designed to transport only one person with an electric propulsion system.
Segways are allowed on sidewalks unless prohibited by a municipality, and lighting must be used between sunset and sunrise. Electric bikes, also known as mopeds, require a Class C driver’s license to operate legally and must be registered with PennDOT and insured. They are prohibited from sidewalks and bike lanes.
E-bikes weighing less than 100 pounds are treated as bicycles under the law and do not require licensing or registration. However, e-scooters are considered motor vehicles and are subject to titling and registration requirements. They must also pass equipment standards and inspection requirements to be operated legally.
While the regulations may seem complex, police departments often take an educational approach when encountering individuals operating these vehicles. Instead of immediately issuing citations, officers focus on educating riders about the potential dangers of operating these vehicles on public roads. Police chiefs emphasize the importance of considering the age of the rider, the type of vehicle, and the location where it is being operated.
While enforcement actions may be necessary in certain situations, such as with off-road gas-powered vehicles like dirt bikes and ATVs, police departments often prioritize education and safety when dealing with individuals operating low-speed vehicles on public roads. By working with the community and enforcing regulations, law enforcement agencies aim to ensure the safety of all road users while also promoting responsible and legal use of various types of self-propelled vehicles.