November 18, 2004

HEALEY SIGNS LAW REGULATING USE OF MOTORIZED SCOOTERS

Acting Governor Kerry Healey today signed safety legislation requiring motorized scooters and mini-motorbike operators to obey all traffic laws and banning their use by unlicensed drivers.

“This new law treats motor-powered scooters essentially like motor vehicles, with the expectation that riders will be licensed and obey the rules of the road,” said Healey. “Placing restrictions on these devices goes a long way in protecting our children from life-threatening injuries.”

The popular motorized mini-bikes and scooters have prompted some communities to pass ordinances regulating their use. Public safety officials have cited numerous hazards, including children’s inability to drive responsibly and follow general traffic flow, motorists’ difficulty spotting the small bikes on the road, and no existing requirements to wear helmets.

Under the new law, riders must possess a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit, wear protective headgear and remain on the right side of the road at all times. In addition, operators may not ride with a passenger or operate the device faster than 20 miles per hour.

“Eighty-five percent of scooter injuries here in the United States have involved children fifteen years old and younger. Without clear regulations in place, these scooters are a tragedy waiting to happen,” said Representative Robert Fennell, Democrat from Lynn. “Our office has received a large volume of calls in support of this bill and I think this law will go a long way in helping to keep children safer on the roads.”

A motorized scooter is defined as a 2 wheeled device with handlebars on which a rider stands or sits, powered by an electric or gas motor. Under the legislation, drivers must operate these devices in accordance with all traffic laws, limiting access to express state highways or roadways that specifically prohibit their use. To prevent unnecessary injury and promote clear communication between scooters and other vehicles on the road, each scooter must be equipped with a stop and turn signal. The law also restricts drivers from operating after dark.

Penalties for violating the new law is a fine of no more than $25 for first-time offenders, between $25 to $50 for second violations and between $50 and $100 for third or subsequent violations.

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