In Maryland, electric scooters are considered “motorized bicycles.” This means that they are subject to the same rules and regulations as regular bicycles. For example, riders must wear a helmet and can not ride on sidewalks. Electric scooters are not allowed on highways or in areas where there is heavy foot traffic.
With the recent popularity of electric scooters, many states are scrambling to create laws and regulations surrounding their use. Maryland is one of those states, and recent legislation has created some confusion about where and how these scooters can be used. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about electric scooter laws in Maryland.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that electric scooters are considered vehicles under Maryland law. This means that they must be operated in accordance with all traffic laws, including obeying speed limits, stopping at red lights, and yielding to pedestrians. Additionally, riders must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit in order to operate an electric scooter on public roads.
Electric scooters are also subject to the same parking rules as other vehicles. This means they cannot be parked on sidewalks, in crosswalks, or in any other location where they would impede pedestrian traffic or block access to fire hydrants or building entrances/exits. Scooters must also be parked upright; riding them while they’re lying down on the ground is not only illegal but also incredibly dangerous.
There are currently no specific regulations regarding where electric scooters can be ridden in Maryland; however, common sense dictates that they should only be used on streets and sidewalks unless otherwise posted (for example, some bike paths may prohibit motorized vehicles). When riding on sidewalks, riders must yield to pedestrians and give them plenty of space; if a sidewalk is too crowded for comfortable travel, find another route or dismount and walk your scooter instead. Overall, Maryland’s electric scooter laws are pretty straightforward: follow the rules of the road and use common sense when riding.
By doing so, you’ll help keep yourself safe while also ensuring that everyone around you can enjoy their time out on the town without having to worry about getting run over by a reckless rider!
Contents
- 1 Are Electric Scooters Legal in Maryland
- 2 There are no State Laws Specifically Regulating the Use of Electric Scooters
- 3 What are the Rules for Riding an Electric Scooter in Maryland?
- 4 Riders Should Obey All Traffic Laws And Regulations, Including Speed Limits And Rules of the Road
- 5 Riders Should Be Aware That Some Cities And Counties May Have Their Own Regulations
- 6 FAQs
- 7 Final Thoughts
Are Electric Scooters Legal in Maryland
Yes, electric scooters are legal in Maryland. The state’s motor vehicle laws do not specifically address electric scooters, so they are considered to be “low-speed vehicles” under state law. This means that electric scooters must be operated on roadways with a speed limit of 35 mph or less.
Electric scooters are also subject to all other rules and regulations that apply to low-speed vehicles, including the requirement to have a valid driver’s license and registration.
There are no State Laws Specifically Regulating the Use of Electric Scooters
There are no state laws specifically regulating the use of electric scooters, but that doesn’t mean you can ride them anywhere you want. Local municipalities have the authority to regulate the use of motorized scooters on public property, and many have done so. In San Francisco, electric scooters are only allowed on streets with a speed limit of 25 mph or less, and riders must yield to pedestrians and follow all other traffic laws.
Some cities have also enacted regulations regarding where electric scooters can be parked. In San Francisco, for instance, they must be parked upright and within two feet of a curb. They also can’t be left in bike lanes or on sidewalks.
Despite the lack of statewide regulations, if you’re thinking about riding an electric scooter, it’s still a good idea to check local ordinances before hitting the streets. Cities And Counties May Have Their Own Regulations, So Be Sure to Check With Your Local Authorities before Riding.
What are the Rules for Riding an Electric Scooter in Maryland?
Electric scooters are a new mode of transportation that has been popping up in cities across the country. They are a fun and convenient way to get around, but there are also some rules that users should be aware of before using them. In Maryland, electric scooters are considered “Personal Mobility Devices” under state law.
This means that they are subject to the same rules as bicycles. Here are a few things to keep in mind when riding an electric scooter in Maryland:
1. You must be at least 16 years old to operate an electric scooter on public roads or sidewalks.
2. Electric scooters can only be used during daylight hours.
3. You must wear a helmet while riding an electric scooter.
4. You must yield to pedestrians when operating an electric scooter on sidewalks or crosswalks.
5. Electric scooters are not allowed on highways or interstates in Maryland.
Riders Should Obey All Traffic Laws And Regulations, Including Speed Limits And Rules of the Road
There’s no doubt about it, motorcycles are a blast to ride. They’re fast, they’re nimble and they look cool too. But before you throw your leg over the seat of a bike, there are a few things you need to know.
First and foremost, motorcycles are much less stable than cars and trucks. That means that they require more skill to operate and are more susceptible to road hazards like potholes and gravel. Riders must also be extra vigilant of other drivers, who may not see or respect a motorcycle’s right-of-way.
That said, riding a motorcycle can be an incredibly exhilarating experience. Just be sure to obey all traffic laws, wear proper safety gear and never ride beyond your skill level.
Riders Should Be Aware That Some Cities And Counties May Have Their Own Regulations
Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular as a mode of transportation in cities across the country. While they offer a fun and convenient way to get around, it’s important for riders to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding their use. Additionally, riders should be aware that some cities and counties may have their own regulations regarding the use of electric scooters. Here are some general tips for riding an electric scooter:
Wear a helmet: This is perhaps the most important safety tip. Always wear a helmet when riding an electric scooter, even if it’s not required by law.
Follow the rules of the road: Just like with any other vehicle, electric scooters must follow all traffic laws. That means no riding on sidewalks, running red lights, or weaving in and out of traffic. Obey all posted signs and signals.
Yield to pedestrians: Electric scooters can travel at speeds up to 15 miles per hour, so it’s important to yield to pedestrians, especially in areas where there are a lot of them (e.g., near schools or parks). Slow down or stop altogether if necessary. And always give pedestrians the right-of-way when crossing streets.
Ride sober: Never ride an electric scooter while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Not only is it illegal, but it’s also extremely dangerous.
FAQs
What Exactly Is An Electric Bicycle?
Although electric bicycles are becoming more popular, there are still many misconceptions about them. Here are some common questions that people have about e-bikes, along with the answers. An electric bicycle, also known as an e-bike, is a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with an electric motor that can be used for propulsion. Most e-bikes also have pedals, so they can be pedaled like a regular bicycle.
How do electric bicycles work?
E-bikes have a battery that powers the motor. When you pedal the bike, the motor assists you by providing extra power. The amount of assistance depends on the mode that you’ve selected and how much you pedal. Some e-bikes have a throttle that allows you to get power from the motor without pedaling at all.
How fast do electric bikes go?
The speed of an e-bike depends on several factors, including the motor type (hub or mid-drive), battery voltage, and assist level selected. Generally speaking, hub motors are slower but easier to maintain than mid-drive motors. Battery voltage also affects speed – 36 volts is the slowest and 60 volts is the fastest. And finally, most e-bikes provide different levels of assist so you can choose how much power you want from the motor while pedaling – higher levels of assist result in higher speeds.
Final Thoughts
The Maryland legislature recently passed a law making electric scooters legal on state roads. The new law, which goes into effect October 1, 2019, allows e-scooters with a maximum speed of 20 mph and a motor not exceeding 750 watts to be operated on any roadway with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less. E-scooters are also allowed on bike lanes and paths.
To operate an e-scooter in Maryland, riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit. Riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet while riding. E-scooter companies that wish to do business in Maryland must obtain a permit from the Maryland Department of Transportation.
Permitted companies must have insurance coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence and must comply with all state and local laws regarding the operation of their scooters.
