Electric scooters have become a popular new mode of transportation in recent years. With 88.5 million people using electric scooters to get around in recent years, it is likely you may have seen these scooters taking passengers from place to place in Pennsylvania. Drunk-driving laws in Pennsylvania apply to various vehicles, including electric scooters.
The criminal defense attorneys of Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford have handled many cases in which their clients have been charged with a DUI. While DUI charges are commonly associated with an individual driving a car or motorcycle, driving an electric scooter while under the influence is also dangerous.
Can You Get a DUI on an Electric Scooter in Pennsylvania?
Under Pennsylvania law, you may be charged with a DUI if caught driving an e-scooter or electric scooter under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In Pennsylvania, if you are found operating any motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration over 0.08%, you risk being arrested for a DUI or charged with general impairment. Electric scooters are considered motorized vehicles under Pennsylvania law, which means they are subject to DUI regulations similar to those for cars and motorcycles. Penalties you may face for this charge may be:
- Paying fines
- Spending time in incarceration
- Having your licenses suspended or revoked
Additionally, a DUI charge may affect you in other aspects of your life. This type of charge may go on your permanent record, showing up in background checks and making it difficult for you to rent a home, get a job, or apply for a loan.
How Does Pennsylvania Law Define a Motor Vehicle?
While you may assume that a motor vehicle would only describe a car, truck, or motorcycle, you would be surprised to find that is incorrect. This includes vehicles powered by an electric motor, such as electric scooters. Under Pennsylvania Vehicle Code 102, a vehicle is defined as a device in which an individual or property is transported or drawn upon a highway. This does not include devices or vehicles used exclusively on rails or tracks, like trains or the subway. Under Code 102, an electric scooter would fall under the category of motor vehicle, making it possible to receive a DUI while driving one. In some jurisdictions, electric scooters may also be classified under the category of motorized bicycles, which have specific legal distinctions and requirements.
Electric Scooter Laws in Pennsylvania
As electric scooters become more popular, it’s crucial to understand the specific laws that govern their use in Pennsylvania. These laws are designed to ensure the safety of riders and pedestrians while maintaining order on the roads. Below, we break down the key regulations you need to know before hopping on an electric scooter in the Keystone State.
Registration and Insurance
In Pennsylvania, electric scooters are classified as motor vehicles, which means they are subject to certain registration and insurance requirements. However, most electric scooters do not meet the necessary equipment standards to be registered. For instance, Pennsylvania law stipulates that electric scooters must have a maximum speed of 20 mph and a motor power of less than 750 watts to qualify for registration. Because most electric scooters fall short of these standards, they are generally exempt from registration and insurance requirements. This exemption simplifies the process for riders but also underscores the importance of adhering to other safety and operational guidelines.
Minimum Riding Age and Helmet Requirement
When it comes to riding electric scooters in Pennsylvania, age and safety gear are important considerations. The minimum age for riding an electric scooter is 16 years old. Additionally, riders under the age of 18 are required by law to wear a helmet that meets the standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. While helmet use is not mandated for riders over 18, it is strongly recommended for all riders to ensure maximum safety while operating an electric scooter. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Where to Ride
Navigating where you can legally ride an electric scooter in Pennsylvania is essential for both safety and compliance with the law. Electric scooters are prohibited on sidewalks and highways with speed limits exceeding 25 mph. Instead, riders should use electric scooters on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less, as well as on designated bike paths and trails. It’s important to note that local municipalities may have specific rules and regulations regarding the use of electric scooters. Therefore, always check with local authorities to ensure you are riding in permitted areas and adhering to any additional local guidelines.
Safety Requirements for Electric Scooters
Safety should always be a top priority when riding an electric scooter. Pennsylvania law mandates certain safety requirements to protect both riders and pedestrians. These include having functional brakes, lights, and reflectors on your scooter. Additionally, wearing appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and reflective clothing, can further enhance your safety. Always follow traffic rules, signal your turns, and stay alert to your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. By adhering to these safety requirements, you can help prevent accidents and ensure a smooth ride on your electric scooter.
How a DUI Charge May Affect You
A DUI in Pennsylvania is a very serious charge. When charged with a DUI, you may risk having your license suspended or revoked, depending on whether you have been a repeat offender. Additionally, this type of charge may go on your permanent record and be shown in background checks. This can make it very difficult for you to rent a home, lease a vehicle, apply for a loan, or get a job. Before beginning your next electric scooter ride, make sure you are sober, as the negative repercussions of receiving a DUI are not worth it. To avoid legal complications, consider operating your electric scooter on private property with the landowner’s permission, especially if you have consumed alcohol.
Pennsylvania DUI Defense Lawyers Are Here to Help You
Taking a ride on an electric scooter may seem like a fun way to transport from one location to the next. Electric scooters, often classified under motor-driven cycles, require careful legal navigation when facing DUI charges. However, you still hold a responsibility to be alert when operating a motor vehicle of any type. If you have been charged with a DUI while driving an electric scooter, you may feel helpless. If you are unsure of what to do next to help your case, you may want to contact an experienced team of DUI criminal defense attorneys.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford are a team of criminal defense attorneys experienced with helping clients charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania. For over 65 years, our seasoned legal team has been serving clients of Southeastern Pennsylvania and providing them with dedicated representation in the hopes of providing them with the second chance they deserve. For a free consultation, call (215) 822-7575 or contact us here.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
April 7, 2025
