Gas Powered Skateboard Laws
Gasoline-powered small transportation devices commonly cannot legally operate off privately owned properties. Some states allow such devices to operate on roadways but consider them motorcycles, while other states refuse roadway access to all motorized vehicles similar to skateboards. Many city or county laws prohibit such vehicles though state law permits them. Individuals must contact state motor vehicle offices, insurance providers and city or county legislators to discern all viable laws pertaining to motorized skateboards.
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Without Handlebars
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Motorized skateboards often can continue traveling under motor power even if a rider dismounts. For this reason, many government agencies forbid such vehicles access to any public areas. Gasoline-motor vehicles with four wheels often receive the legal definition of automobile and must meet all insurance, registration and operator's licensing laws pertaining to automobiles. The lack of proper lighting and mirrors would keep an average motorized skateboard from passing state inspection requirements for roadways operation, and insurance needs for such a vehicle would far outweigh the cost of purchase. Motorized skateboards often cannot meet safety concerns lawmakers hold for the general public, according to Scoot on This, LLC, online scooter information resource.
With Handlebars
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Skateboards with handlebars, commonly called scooters, generally possess only three wheels. This allows such vehicles to fall under the definition of bicycle when not motorized. Motorized skateboard with handlebars often receive low speed electric vehicle ratings, if powered with an electric motor. Gas-powered skateboards with handlebars often receive moped or motorcycle legal definitions. Gasoline-powered skateboards with handlebars often require an operator to be licensed, to be registered with the state and to carry insurance. Some vehicles meeting certain low-speed requirements may not require such legalities, but most every U.S. state regulates gasoline-powered devices far more than electric and human-powered machines. For example, California emissions requirements typically outlaw any gas-powered small vehicle such as a scooter, states UrbanScooters.com, online small vehicle resource.
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Helmet Laws
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Most any locale allowing motorized skateboards of any kind requires a bicycle or motorcycle helmet depending on vehicle definition. Helmet laws often apply to low-power vehicles even in states with lax motorcycle and bicycle helmet laws. Recent emissions laws and the sudden arrival of child-sized motorized vehicles such as pocket bikes has several legislators scrambling to address public safety concerns these vehicles pose when operated by children unfamiliar with roadway laws. Because of this, several localities require helmets simply to ensure additional safety while protecting government interests and liabilities. Laws may require minors or all citizens of particular areas to wear appropriate safety helmets while operating motorized skateboard vehicles.
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References
- Photo Credit skateboard image by charles taylor from Fotolia.com
