How Does Colorado Law View Electric Scooters?
Within the past few years, electric scooter rides have increased in popularity, bringing an average of 88 million rides. With scooters popping up in tourist areas, cities, and university campuses, it is no surprise that more and more people are utilizing this new form of transportation. While electric scooters are fun, affordable, and fast modes of transportation, they can still be dangerous to pedestrians and other people driving motor vehicles. If you plan to operate an electric scooter in Colorado in the future, there are some things you should consider first.
What Does Colorado Law Have to Say About Electric Scooters?
Each state has its answer to this question, but if you plan to use an electric scooter in Colorado, understanding the law surrounding this form of transportation is essential. In Colorado, the Regulation of Electric Scooters excludes electric scooters from being classified as “toy vehicles.” Due to this fact, electric scooters may be operated on both sidewalks and roadways. This also means that drivers of electric scooters are to be given the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of electric-assisted bicycles.
In section five of the act, Colorado law also states that the local government must not have restrictions any more strict for electric scooters than the restrictions in place for electric-assisted bicycles. So, while you do have the right to drive an electric scooter on the sidewalks and roadways legally, it is crucial to understand that you are still expected to drive safely and not operate recklessly.
What Limitations are in Place for Electric Scooters?
While the statewide law is relatively lenient for electric scooters, the law varies from one city to the next. For example, while Colorado allows electric scooters, if you visit Breckenridge, you will find that it completely bans electric scooters unless the driver owns the scooter. The following restrictions or limitations are in place to help regulate electric scooter use:
- While riding on a sidewalk, the scooter’s speed must not exceed six miles per hour.
- If the speed limit is 30 miles per hour or more, the scooter must be operated on the sidewalk.
- If the speed limit is 30 miles per hour or less, the scooter must be operated on the road.
- If operating the vehicle on a roadway, the driver must utilize hand signals to show other drivers what way they are turning.
- While operating an electric scooter, the driver must obey all signage.
- If a traffic violation occurs, electric scooter drivers can be given a citation.
When operating an electric scooter, drivers must obey these limitations for their safety and the safety of other drivers and pedestrians.
Colorado Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You
Driving an electric scooter is a fun and easy way to get from place to place as you enjoy the warm summer weather. While this mode of transportation may seem like a harmless, good time, there is still a chance for disaster to strike. 63 percent of surveyed individuals stated that they were either involved in a crash or had a close call with electric scooters.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from an accident involving an electric scooter, contact the personal injury lawyers at Mintz Law Firm. The award-winning team at Mintz Law Firm will provide you with personalized care to help with your claim for any damages you may be owed as a result of the accident. For a free consultation, contact us here or call (303) 462-2999.