Electric scooters have become popular in Las Vegas. People of all ages enjoy that they offer an inexpensive and convenient mode of transportation. With companies like Go X offering scooter rentals throughout the city, expect to see more and more electric scooters around town. That said, there is some confusion about the rules and regulations of these vehicles. The Las Vegas injury lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys offer this blog to help you and your family understand Las Vegas electric scooter laws.
How Are These Vehicles Defined Under Las Vegas Electric Scooter Laws?
Electric scooters come in all shapes, sizes, and speeds. In Nevada, these vehicles have a very specific definition. As per NRS 482.0295, an electric scooter is a vehicle:
- With handlebars and an electric motor that is designed to be ridden on in an upright or seated position and is propelled by its electric motor or by propulsion provided by the rider;
- That does not weigh more than 100 pounds without a rider; and
- That has a maximum speed of not more than 20 miles per hour when powered solely by its electric motor.
Las Vegas Electric Scooter Laws: Rules of the Road
Now that we’ve defined what the state considers an electric scooter, let’s take a look at some of the rules of the road, as outlined in NRS484B. In Las Vegas, electric scooters can be operated under the following conditions.
- Except as otherwise provided in an ordinance enacted pursuant to NRS 484A.469, an electric scooter may be operated:
- On a roadway, bicycle lane, path or route at a speed of not more than 15 miles per hour; and
- On a sidewalk and other pedestrian areas at a speed that does not exceed the limit set in an ordinance enacted pursuant to NRS 484A.469, if any.
- Except as otherwise provided in a specific statute or an ordinance enacted pursuant to NRS 484A.469:
- An electric scooter is subject to all the provisions of law applicable to bicycles and electric bicycles except those provisions which by their nature can have no application; and
- A person operating an electric scooter has the same rights and duties as a person operating a bicycle or an electric bicycle, except for those rights and duties which by their nature can have no application.
Some people incorrectly believe that electric scooters are treated the same as bicycles or motorcycles in Las Vegas. While there is some overlap, there are also some key differences. These include:
- You do not need a valid driver’s license to operate an electric scooter
- Electric scooters are exempt from registration and insurance
- Scooter riders 18-years old and older are not required to wear helmets
- Riders must be at least 16-years old to operate an electric scooter in Nevada
Electric Scooter Safety
Although electric scooters, as defined by the state, are slower than motorcycles, riders are relatively unprotected–especially those that choose not to wear a helmet. In addition to obeying all Las Vegas Electric Scooter Laws, the Nevada injury lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys recommend the following:
- Wear a Helmet: Our Las Vegas injury lawyers highly recommend helmet use for all Nevada electric scooter riders. Even though it’s not required, a proper helmet goes a long way towards preventing or minimizing brain injuries in a scooter crash.
- Check Your Brakes Before Riding: Being able to control your scooter is a vital component of safety. This is why you should always check your brakes before heading out. Being able to come to a controlled stop or decelerate quickly can help you avoid broken bones and soft tissue injuries.
- Ride Smart: For the most part, electric scooters are for solo riders. Avoid carrying passengers, which can make your scooter difficult to control and strain its engine. Ride predictably and obey all Las Vegas electric scooter laws.
- Always Monitor Road Conditions: Stay alert and focused on the path ahead. Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Keep an eye out for uneven surfaces, potholes, and puddles. Be especially cautious during monsoon season, since slippery conditions significantly increase your chances of an accident.
- Be Visible: Since electric motors are quiet, pedestrians might not hear you coming. Use a bell or horn to announce yourself when passing. If you’re riding at night then wear a reflective vest or clothing with reflective strips to increase your visibility to others.
Contact a Las Vegas Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer
The Las Vegas personal injury lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys hope that you found this guide on Las Vegas Electric Scooter Laws and safety useful. Please share this information with the electric scooter riders you know to increase everyone’s safety. Should you suffer injuries in an accident involving an electric scooter then contact us for immediate assistance.
You can reach ER Injury Attorneys 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone at 702-878-7878 and online through LiveChat or encrypted contact form. Our seasoned personal injury lawyers have successfully served clients throughout Nevada, including Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, Pahrump, Boulder City, and Laughlin. Contact us today and take the first step towards getting the settlement that you deserve.