Are electric skateboards legal in the US? The answer to that question is a resounding “no”. Although the federal government has not drafted a federal law covering electric skateboards, this does not mean that they are illegal. While vehicles are required to meet certain minimum standards, electric skateboards do not. Moreover, a vast majority of states have not made any effort to accommodate these boards and will likely rely on Federal Laws instead.
Is it a motorized vehicle
It is difficult to find a definitive answer to the question: Is an electric skateboard a motorized vehicle in America. But, for those who live in states that require registration of motorized vehicles, the answer is a resounding no electric skateboard. As far as the laws are concerned, an electric skateboard would not be considered a motorized vehicle in the United States because it would not meet state statutory requirements. But, in other states, such as Florida, an electric skateboard is allowed on streets or roads with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or lower.
According to the definition of a motorized vehicle, an electric skateboard falls within this definition. Because it’s powered by nonmuscular power, an electric skateboard is a motorized vehicle. Because it does not travel on rails or tracks, it should be regulated just like a motorized vehicle. The Department of Motor Vehicles’ chief of legal services confirms this definition.
The legal definition of an electric skateboard is relatively vague, but there are some rules that govern their use on the road. Under Californian law, an electric skateboard must have a motor powered by an electric motor that is no more than 750 watts, travel at a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour, and yield to pedestrians. However, the two most common electric skateboard manufacturers advertise a top speed of 22 mph, with the Mellow Drive reaching speeds of 24. Therefore, an electric skateboard is legal in California, despite the law.
Currently, electric skateboards are classified as motor-assisted scooters. Some states have already passed laws allowing their use on streets with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour. Michigan has recently passed legislation allowing for their use on public roads. However, the issue remains open. If a skateboard meets these requirements, it is likely to be classified as a motorized vehicle.
Australia’s Road Rules categorize electric skateboards as “wheeled recreational devices” even though they do not specifically mention them as such. Wheeled recreational devices, including electric skateboards, are essentially “wheeled devices” in Australia, and are not considered motor vehicles in the country. In Australia, it is illegal to ride an electric skateboard on median strips, one-way streets with more than one lane, and roads that are unmarked. Furthermore, e-boards cannot be used in the city at night.
Interestingly, Florida does not require registration of an electric skateboard. Nevertheless, it does require a license and insurance. The law states that “motor vehicles are vehicles propelled by non-muscular power.” The law also prohibits the use of an electric skateboard on sidewalks or bicycle lanes. Further, an electric skateboard does not meet minimum safety standards to be classified as a motorized vehicle.
Although an electric skateboard is not legally classified as a motorized vehicle in the US, it meets the same safety standards as any bicycle. As long as you’re properly equipped with lights, an electric skateboard won’t break the law. However, there are other limitations to safety. Electric skateboards cannot be used by minors or anyone under the influence of alcohol. If you’re not sure, you should consult AB-604 (file).
While it may be legal to use an electric skateboard on the road, many states have banned them. As with bicycles, they are considered motorized vehicles and cannot be registered. Therefore, they are a motorized vehicle in the US but are not considered vehicles by the police in those states. However, some states have passed laws making electric skateboards legal in public. It’s important to check with your local government for any restrictions on these devices.