As of January 1, 2005 there are new laws that pertain to motorized scooters.  At first glance, the scooters may seen fairly harmless, however, there are several laws that address serious hazards that scooters can pose.  The definition of a motorized scooter as stated in the Vehicle Code is: Any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, is designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator and is powered by a motor capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion (407.5(a)CVC).

The following are laws outlined in the California Vehicle Code:

1. The operator must have a valid driver's license or instructional permit.
2. No insurance, registration or license plates are required.
3. The operator must properly wear a bicycle helmet regardless of age.
4. The operator may not have any passengers.
5. The operator must have at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.
6. DUI is applicable to motorized scooters.
7. Motorized scooters may not be operated at a speed greater than 15 mph.
8. Motorized scooters may not be operated on streets with a speed limit greater than 25 mph, unless it is operated in a marked bicycle lane.
9. Motorized scooters may not be operated on any sidewalk.
10. The operator may not make a left turn at an intersection.  The operator must stop and dismount at the right hand side of the roadway or curb and then complete the turn by crossing the roadway on foot.
11. The handlebars must be at or below the level of the operator’s shoulders.
12. The operator may not park the motorized scooter on the sidewalk if it blocks the path of the sidewalk.
13. The operator may not attach themselves or the scooter to any other vehicle in the roadway.
14. Equipment requirements during darkness:
    1. Must have a white headlight visicle from 300 feet from the front and the sides.
    2. Must have a red reflector on the rear of the scooter or attached to the operator of the scooter visible from 500 feet.
    3. Must have a white or yellow reflector on each side visible from 200 feet in front and back of the scooter.
    4. Must have an engine/motor kill switch that activates when released or when the brakes are applied.
15. Motor scooters shall not emit excessive noise.  This usually is the result of a modified exhaust system.

An operator of a motorized scooter may be cited by a police officer and ordered to appear in court for violating the laws regulating these vehicles.  Parents/Guardians of a minor child may be liable for injury to persons or property in a collision.  If you have any questions, please contact Officer Larry Vietz, Lodi Police Department Traffic Unit at 333-6728.

Motorized scooters can be a lot of fun but can also be dangerous if not driven responsible.