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Are mobility scooters allowed on the road? The answer depends on your state — some regions allow these mobility aids on the road, while others do not.
I recently bought a mobility scooter to help me move around the neighborhood quickly. But I needed to know whether the device was usable on the roads, and here is what I found out. Read on!
Check: The List of Best Electric Mobility Scooter To Buy
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Mobility scooters are not meant to be used on roads, but this depends on your state of residence.
- You can ride scooters in public spaces, provided you maintain a below 4 mph speed.
- You do not need a license or insurance but check up on your State’s laws.
Mobility Scooters Usability on the Roads
People with mobility scooters usually ask, “are mobility scooters allowed on the road?” since they depend on these advanced devices for accessibility. (1)
But a scooter is not a legalized vehicle to ride on bus lanes or dual carriageways.
This is because the standard mobility scooter speed is 3–5 miles per hour, and such a pace might cause traffic jams.
Scooters cannot shield you from rain and wind and leave you prone to fatal injuries if accidents happen.
Also, note that city-to-city laws on scooter usage differ. Some areas may allow riding on roads, while others won’t. So research your municipal or home association laws.
Check out this YouTube video from Mobility Touch on electric scooter usage on roads.
Driving Your Mobility Scooter
Since mobility scooters are usually not allowed on public highways, you may wonder where to use the assistive device.
Here are places you can ride these electric devices.
1. Sidewalks
As a scooter is a primary transportation mode for people with disabilities, they are allowed on sidewalks. But this usage is limited to five states only; Virginia, Rhode Island, Iowa, Louisiana, and Arizona. (2)
But there are rules on how to ride the device on this path.
The standard regulation is that you should not obstruct other people’s right of passage or exceed 4 miles per hour. The last thing you want is to startle or bump into pedestrians since they will not hear you coming.
Other regions view mobility aids as dangerous to pedestrians, hence banning their usage on the sidewalks.
2. Streets
Generally, three classes or types of mobility scooters exist: first, second, and third. The first class can only ride on pavements, but you can take the second and third classes of scooters on the roads.
But some states, like Delaware, do not allow scooters on the streets. (3)
Follow the traffic rules and have crucial features like functional lights, brakes, indicators, horns, and reflective gear.
3. Specific Public Places
Some public buildings or other amenities allow accessibility for people with mobility disabilities. With the ADA advocating for equal rights for all citizens, you can navigate accessible amenities easily. (4)
So, are mobility scooters allowed in shops? Yes, some shops have laid the necessary measures to enable people with mobility devices to shop with peace of mind.
Maintain a decent speed to avoid collisions with pedestrians or other shoppers within the premises.
Also, note that different public spaces may have unique regulations on scooter usage, so ask the relevant authority if any laws are in place.
READ MORE: Can You Overcharge a Mobility Scooter Battery?
Is a License Necessary To Ride a Mobility Scooter?
No fixed regulation requires you to have a license to ride powered wheelchairs. But a distinct class of scooters is regarded as recreational vehicles.
These include scooters that people without disabilities can use for mobility, like a golf cart. Most states will need you to have a license if riding a recreational type of mobility scooter.
So you need to know the type of vehicle you are riding or buying beforehand to avoid trouble with authorities.
Some modern scooters travel above 3–5 miles per hour, hence the need to label them as recreational vehicles.
Is an Insurance Cover Needed for Mobility Scooters?
No, you do not need an insurance policy covering your mobility aid device. But a comprehensive mobility scooter insurance policy can come in handy as a safety precaution while on the road.
Such an insurance policy would cover issues like a flat battery, mechanical faults, and vandalism. A sound insurance policy can also cater to third-party injury and damage claims, saving you some peace of mind.
Road Rules for Mobility Scooter Users
Different states have unique regulations on scooter usage. While you may need a license, insurance cover, and registration details in some states, others won’t demand these documents.
Here are some crucial rules to follow as a mobility scooter user.
1. Maintain Your Assistive Mobility Device
Ensure the scooter is in excellent shape before taking it to any road. You can do simple checks like checking the tire pressure, lights, and battery level.
Check out this YouTube video from Mobility Direct for scooter maintenance tips.
2. Stay Focused on the Road
While avoiding receiving or making calls may not be easy, the action can affect your safety. Avoiding distractions is essential, so invest in a hands-free accessory.
3. Practise Safe Driving
While a scooter has wheels, it is still regarded as a pedestrian, so following the traffic rules is essential. You should adhere to traffic lights, cross at designated places, and ride while facing traffic.
4. Maintain a Decent Speed
Since you will ride the device on crowded streets and pavements, maintain a decent maximum speed to avoid safety issues. You can maneuver the device quickly in traffic and avoid fatal crashes.
FAQs
Are mobility scooters allowed on the roads?
Scooters are not allowed on roads. But since they enable accessibility for people with physical disabilities, riding on some roads is permitted, provided you follow traffic rules.
What is the average speed limit allowed for mobility scooters?
The average speed limit on roads is below 8 miles per hour. But different spaces have unique speed limits, so it is better to maintain the set pace.
Do you need a license to operate a mobility scooter?
There is no fixed rule that wheelchair users need a license to operate road-legal scooters. But some states may demand having a permit, so check with the state laws to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
The question “are mobility scooters allowed on the road?” usually challenges individuals looking to use the mobility device. Most states have laws on scooter usage, so follow the set regulations.
Now you know where a mobility scooter is allowed and some tips to drive it. It is now up to you to exercise safety and awareness as a mobility scooter rider.
So, are mobility scooters allowed on the road in your state? Let us know in the comments section!
References
1. Thoreau R. The impact of mobility scooters on their users. Does their usage help or hinder?: A state of the art review. Journal of Transport & Health [Internet]. 2015;2:269–75. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214140515000201
2. ADA. ADA Requirements: Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids, and Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices [Internet]. Ada.gov. 2010. Available from: https://www.ada.gov/opdmd.htm
3. Vehicles TS of D-D of M. Vehicle Services Special Vehicles [Internet]. Division of Motor Vehicles. Available from: https://www.dmv.de.gov/VehicleServices/specialvehicles/index.shtml?dc=ve_reg_gopeds
4. ADA. Law and Regulations [Internet]. Beta.ADA.gov. Available from: https://beta.ada.gov/law-and-regs/
