Scooters and the Law
Being informed of the laws is critical for a scooter rider. The first thing to learn is that a scotter isn't quite a car nor is it a bicycle. Also the laws are different in every country.
While you ride your scooter, you have to follow the governing law. If you don't follow the rules, you may be given a warning the first time. But if you continue making mistakes, you could be punished by way of two days in jail.
1. Most of the states allow you to ride a scooter when you are at least 16 years of age. You should have a valid driving license for riding a scooter. Some states permit you to ride a scooter if you have a tag or an instructional permit.
2. Scooters don't need to have registrations, license plates or any other motorcycle endorsements.
3. The use of a helmet is essential while riding your scooter.
4. You cannot have any other person with you when you ride a scooter. It is for use by a single rider.
5. When you are driving on public roads, you must have at least one of your hands on the handle bars. You can show your scooter riding tricks when you are contesting in any competition and not on the roads.
6. Drinking and driving of a scooter is strictly prohibited. You will be definitely caught by an official if you have drinks before riding a scooter. Never assume that drink and drive rules are only applicable for those who drive cars.
7. The maximum speed limit for riding a scooter is 15 mph only. You cannot ride at a speed greater than this limit on the public roads, irrespective of your scooter's ability.
8. You should also follow the speed limit of the roads in which you are riding a scooter. You cannot ride in your scooter on those roads whose speed limit is greater than 25 mph. If there is a bicycle lane, then you can use those roads irrespective of the speed limits.
9. You cannot ride your scooter on the sidewalks as the sidewalks are meant for walkers. If there is no bicycle lane, it doesn't mean you use sidewalks as an alternate.
10. You cannot make left turns at intersections with a scooter. You have to cross the intersection on foot by dismounting from the scooter.
11. Your scooter must have headlights and reflectors. When you want to ride during night hours, you need to have a headlight.
The laws are for the safety of the riders and you should always follow the law for your safety. You are restricted from riding your scooter on high speed limit roads because the fast cars might hit you. All the rules are framed for your safety and it is your duty to follow these rules to ride your scooter safely.
Changes to the laws do occur and sometimes the police aren't familiar with them. This is why I recommnd that you photocopy some of the rules and keep them ith your bike