St. Joseph Electric Scooter Laws and Safety
Electric scooter use is booming across America, especially with teenagers. As with any new form of transportation, many people are unsure of the rules and regulations that govern these vehicles. In an effort to increase awareness and rider safety, the Missouri injury attorneys at Patterson Legal Group explain St. Joseph electric scooter laws and safety regulations. Understanding the Missouri electric scooter rules is an important first step in maximizing safety.
What Is an Electric Scooter?
An electric scooter is a two-wheeled, stand-up vehicle powered by an electric motor. Many people view them as powered versions of the Razor kick scooters that were popular in the aughts. Thanks to advancements in electric motors, which are cheaper and more powerful than ever before, electric scooters offer an inexpensive way to get around St. Joseph. For younger riders, they also offer a sense of freedom and speed that’s new for many teens.
Electric scooters are meant for traveling short distances. Although some models have powerful motors and large batteries that allow for traveling longer distances and faster speeds, mainstream models generally top out at 25 miles of range with a speed limit of 25 miles per hour (mph). Some states limit electric scooters to 20 mph, while others limit them to 15 mph. Popular electric scooter brands in America include Segway Ninebot, Niu, GoTrax, Apollo, and Unagi.
St. Joseph Electric Scooter Laws FAQ
Rules and regulations for electric scooters vary from state to state and city to city. Here are the answers to the most common questions our Missouri injury lawyers have been asked in regards to electric scooter use in St. Joseph.
Q: Is there any age requirement to use an electric scooter in St. Joseph, MO?
A: Yes, there is an age requirement. Electric scooters are considered motor vehicles in Missouri, just like cars, motorcycles, and electric bicycles. As such, a valid driver’s license is required to operate one. In Missouri, you must be 16 years old to obtain a driver’s license.
Q: Do Missouri traffic laws apply to electric scooters?
A: Yes, electric scooters are subject to the same rules and regulations as other motor vehicles. In practical terms, this means that scooter riders must obey all speed limits, stop signs, and lane regulations.
Q: Are electric scooter riders required to wear helmets?
A: Similar to Missouri motorcycle helmet laws, helmet use is required for scooter riders under the age of 26. The Motorcycle accident lawyers at Patterson Legal Group strongly recommend helmet use for all scooter riders, regardless of age.
Q: Is there a speed limit for electric scooters in St. Joseph?
A: Electric scooter use in St. Joseph, MO, is limited to 30 mph.
Q: Can I ride an electric scooter on St. Joseph sidewalks?
A: Unlike other cities in Missouri, electric scooter use on sidewalks is prohibited in St. Joseph, as per city ordinance 28-943.
Remember, electric scooters are a relatively new form of transportation. It’s important to stay up to date with the latest St. Joseph ordinances to see how the rules and regulations change in the future. Patterson Legal Group will provide updates, should any major changes be made to St. Joseph electric scooter laws.
Contact an Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer Near Me
The Missouri injury attorneys at Patterson Legal Group hope that you have a better understanding of St. Joseph electric scooter rules and regulations. Please share this information with the scooter riders you know. Unfortunately, some scooter accidents happen through no fault of your own. If you or a member of your family have been injured in a scooter wreck caused by another party, then contact us for immediate assistance.
You can reach the Missouri scooter accident lawyers at Patterson Legal Group by phone at 888-687-2400 and online through LiveChat or a secure contact form. Our accomplished trial lawyers have helped injury victims throughout Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Colorado receive more than $250 million in settlements. Reach out to us today to get the settlement and service that you deserve.
