Subject:
P.L.2005, c.159 (S-1510) - Regulates operation of motorized scooters
and motorcycles.
On July 19, 2005, Acting Governor Codey signed S-1510 into law as P.L.2005,
c.159. The new law was effective July 19, 2005.
The new law
makes it unlawful to operate motorized scooters upon
highways, streets and sidewalks; public property or lands with certain
exceptions; and the property of another without the consent of the owner
of that property or the person who has a contractual right to the use
of that property. The law defines "motorized scooters" as
miniature motor vehicles which include, but is not limited to, pocket
bikes, super pocket bikes, scooters, mini-scooters, sport scooters,
mini choppers, mini motorcycles, motorized skateboards, and other vehicles
with motors not in compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
and which have no permanent Federal Safety Certification stickers affixed
to the vehicle by the original manufacturer. However, "motorized
scooters" do not include electric personal assistive mobility devices,
motorized bicycles or low-speed vehicles; or motorized wheelchairs,
mobility scooters or similar mobility devices used by persons with physical
disabilities or persons where ambulatory mobility has been impaired
by age or illness.
A person violating
the motorized scooter prohibition is subject to the following penalties:
" For the
first offense, a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $200, and
the seizure of the motorized scooter.
" For the
second offense, a fine of not less than $200 nor more than $500; the
seizure of the motorized scooter; and community service for a period
of not greater than 25 hours.
" For the
third or subsequent offense, a fine of not less than $500 nor more than
$750; the seizure and forfeiture of the motorized scooter; and community
service for a period of not greater than 50 hours.
