If you have a mobility scooter, do you need insurance? In my vehicle, I have to carry liability, have a mirror, lights and registration. How about those driving scooters?
— Brett H., via e-mail
Brett, by mobility scooter, we assume you're referring to what Medford police Lt. Bob Hansen calls an "electric, personal-assistive device." They're also referred to as electric scooters and essentially serve the same purpose as an electric wheelchair — but they're much cooler for cruising about.
Since they are classified as motorized vehicles, Hansen says, they do have to meet certain guidelines — even though they are not specifically addressed in the Department of Motor Vehicles handbook.
The mobility scooter falls somewhere between a moped and a Segway. They must yield to pedestrians, not exceed 15 mph on bike lanes or paths, travel in the same direction as traffic and have a front light and rear reflector.
No title, registration or liability insurance is required for this kind of device.
David House, spokesman for DMV, says the only vehicles that require title and registration are those that meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards and have a vehicle identification number.
Bicycles, ATVs, mini bikes, scooters — and mobility scooters — don't fit into that classification.
Liability insurance is mandatory only for titled and registered vehicles, operating on public roadways.
"It would be really hard to do that much damage with something that small that doesn't move that fast," says House.
Nonetheless, Hansen says, anyone driving a mobility scooter while impaired could suffer legal consequences.
"If they are impaired, and they are on a motorized vehicle or even a bicycle, they can be arrested for driving under the influence," said Hansen.
Hansen said police are more concerned about other drivers than about the scooter operators. He urges drivers to be careful and suggests that scooters be equipped with a very visible flag.
Source: www.mailtribune.com
