Engineering District 5-0

1713 Lehigh Street

Allentown, PA 18103

PR # 103-05

June 7, 2005

Contact:          Sean D. Pressmann

                        Safety Press Officer

                        (610) 798-4121

ALLENTOWN, PA (June 7) –The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation today reminded area residents that motorized scooters are illegal on public property.

Scooters, which typically are gas or electric powered, closely resemble a skateboard with handlebars (some also have seats).  The rider stands on the platform (or sits on a seat), holds onto the handlebars and controls the power of the engine with a hand control.  These scooters can reach speeds of up to 10 to 20 mph.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) would like to remind area residents that it is illegal to operate these vehicles on streets or walkways in Pennsylvania.  Motorized scooters are classified as motor vehicles by the state’s vehicle code which requires registration, license plates and inspection.  However, these scooters cannot pass a safety inspection because they lack basic safety features that are designed to protect the operator.  The driver must also possess a valid driver’s license.

            The only place to legally operate these motorized scooters without violating PennDOT guidelines is on private property where permission is given to operate the scooter.  The fines for violators can range from $25 to $200 dollars.