Can You Drive an Electric Scooter on the Sidewalk?

Many people wonder whether the sidewalk is suitable for driving electric scooters. But there is still confusion regarding the legality of using an electric scooter on a sidewalk. 

So, can you drive an electric scooter on the sidewalk? No, you can’t. The reason behind the restriction on driving an electric scooter on the sidewalk is, that they may cause accidents for pedestrians. 

If you want to know more about whether driving an electric scooter on the sidewalk is legal and safe, check out the following context. Before discussing the legality of an electric scooter on the sidewalk, it is mandatory to acknowledge its functionality and proper use. 

Can You Ride an E-Scooter on the Sidewalk?

Though the use of an electric scooter is not drastic, rules and regulations are still employed for it. Even in notable countries like the US, UK, and Canada, strict laws have been established for driving an electric scooter. These laws also explain whether you can ride an electric scooter on the sidewalk. 

According to the law, driving an electric scooter on the sidewalk is strictly prohibited. The law is even applicable in countries like Australia and Canada. You will be charged a fine if you drive an e-scooter on the sidewalk. The amount of this fine can vary from region to region. 

There is an exception to this law, as you can drive a scooter on the sidewalk when leaving or entering the adjacent property. Other than that, you can never enter the sidewalk with an electric scooter, as it will be illegal to do so. 

How to Use an Electric Scooter on the Sidewalk?

Contrary to what some people think, using an electric scooter is not that difficult. Some people declare its usage far more accessible than traditional vehicles, like cars and bikes. However, you should remember that you will require a driver’s license even for using the electric scooter. 

But, it is not a problematic aspect, as one can easily attain a license for an electric scooter. In some areas, even teenagers are granted electric scooter licenses easily. When it comes to driving the scooter, it is also relatively more effortless and hassle-free. 

Unlike a motorbike, you can turn on the e-scooter by pressing a “start” button and entering the passcode. After that, all you have to do is to ride the back and turn the handles in the direction you want the scooter to move. The speed range of an electric scooter is not that extensive, implying that you can drive it within a limited speed range. 

What are the Laws of E-Scooter on the Sidewalk?

If you have bought an electric scooter, you must be thoroughly familiar with its laws. Though these rules can vary from place to place, the primary regulations remain the same worldwide. 

Driving the electric scooter might be illegal on the sidewalk, but there are still some areas where you can legally yet safely drive your electric scooter. For e-scooters, it is suggested not to drive over the speed range of 25 miles per hour. However, when traffic is around, this speed limit reduces to 15 miles per hour. 

Now when it comes to the area where you can drive an electric scooter, the bike lane is suitable for you. A person driving the e-scooter is not advised to leave this lane, as it can be potentially dangerous. But in this lane, you must not drive fast, as pedestrians, bicycles, and runners may also be using this lane simultaneously. 

Can you Drive an Electric Scooter on the Sidewalk With Permit?

Not many people know, but in some states of the US, a special permit allows you to drive an electric scooter on the sidewalk. The permit is given to those using an electric scooter for the first time. In fact, it would be apt to say that the permit acts like a learner’s license. 

However, like any learner permit, this one is valid for only a limited period, i.e., a year. After this period, you cannot drive the electric scooter on the sidewalk. Then you will have to legally use the main road to use the electric scooter. 

Where is it Safe to Drive an Electric Scooter: Sidewalk or Main Road?

Many people prefer to drive the electric scooter on the sidewalk because it is relatively safer. The eclectic scooter is a slow-paced vehicle compared to others, and many people still classify it as a “toy vehicle.” That is why they also wonder whether driving the electric scooter on the main road is safe. 

Though the main road seems a bit overwhelming for driving the electric scooter, you can still securely drive the e-scooter if you follow the laws. As mentioned earlier, you can drive the electric scooter only in the bike lane of the road, as it is the safest. 

If you shift to other lanes, an accident can happen, as other ones are meant for speedy vehicles. Therefore, you must stay in your lane and observe the laws properly, as it will ensure you safeguard. 

Electric Scooter Insurance is Required to Ride on Sidewalk and Main Road

Buying insurance for vehicles is a common concept these days. Not everyone can afford extensive repair and maintenance bills for their vehicles. Therefore, such people opt to insure their cars and bikes, as it lays off an extensive repair burden.

If you are also wondering whether you can insure your electric scooter, then you will be glad to acknowledge that it is possible to purchase insurance for your e-scooter. 

In some countries like Canada, it is mandatory to have insurance for your electric scooter even your ride on the sidewalk, whose source consumes power of over 750 watts. However, in other regions, choosing e-scooter insurance is only an option. But opting for insurance is advised if you want to keep your electric scooter maintained and protected. 

Why is Driving the Scooter More Dangerous on the Road than Sidewalk?

Though the electric scooter is overall a safe vehicle, its use on the main road is still considered dangerous. Over the years, multiple accidents involving an electric scooter have been reported. Such accidents happen when you don’t observe the rules and regulations. 

If your scooter has been insured, you don’t need to worry much, as the insurance company will cover the repair costs. But you will need to pay for the repairs if you don’t have insurance. But as mentioned earlier, an electric scooter is a low-maintenance vehicle, implying the repair cost won’t be too much. 

Final Verdict

Now that you have learned whether you can drive the electric scooter on the sidewalk, you must follow the rules to use the e-scooter safely on the main road. Electric scooters have become a more convenient traveling source, as they cut down electrical costs and don’t require much maintenance. 

But while driving the electric scooter, you must abide by the regulations, as they ensure your’s and others’ safety. The general rules for driving an electric scooter are different in every country. That is why you need to check their respective laws separately for proper understanding. 

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Sarah James

My name is Sarah and I am a Content writer at eRidesAdvice. I have been writing about electric scooters for over seven years, and I am passionate about helping people find the perfect product for their needs. I am also an experienced rider, and I am always on the lookout for the latest and greatest electric scooters. I have got a degree in Automotive Engineering Technology from Ferris State University.  Meet our team