Electric Skateboards: Banned From Bike Paths, Why?

Electric skateboards are prohibited from riding on some bike paths, sidewalks and roads, depending on the country and state. In the United States, for example, there are stiff laws that prohibit skateboarders from using bike lanes or even sidewalks. In California, an electrically motorized skateboard is not considered a motorized skateboard if it is less than 60 inches long and less than 18 inches wide, is designed to transport just one person, has an electric propulsion system that averages less than 1,000 watts and its maximum speed is less than 20 miles per hour. In Australia, electric skateboards are not allowed on roads with median strips, one-way roads with more than one marked lane or any road where the speed limit is greater than 50 kilometres per hour.

Electric skateboards are not allowed on bike paths in some cities

The reason for these restrictions is likely due to the negative perceptions that have plagued skateboarding for decades. In addition, legislation often struggles to keep pace with advancing technology, and some cities and states might simply ignore new and emerging technology, preferring to react to issues after they arise rather than proactively addressing potential concerns.

However, it's important to note that the regulations regarding electric skateboards can vary depending on the city and state. While some cities ban electric skateboards on bike lanes, a college campus might allow them. Therefore, it's essential to contact local law enforcement agencies, state departments of motor vehicles, and local departments of transportation offices to understand the specific rules and restrictions in your area.

In California, for example, it is legal to ride an electric skateboard on a public bicycle path as long as the rider is wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet, maintains a speed below twenty miles per hour, and does not ride with two or more people aboard.

Some countries have laws prohibiting skateboards on bike lanes

In Australia, electric skateboards are considered "wheeled recreational devices". Unlike cyclists, skateboarders are classed as pedestrians. This means that electric skateboards cannot be ridden on roads with median strips, one-way roads with more than one marked lane, or any road where the speed limit is greater than 50 kilometres per hour. In Singapore, electric skateboards are allowed on footpaths up to 15 km/h and on cycle paths up to 25 km/h, but they are technically illegal on the road.

Electric skateboards are restricted to private property in some cities

However, the laws vary from city to city, and even from state to state. For example, in Singapore, e-skates are allowed to roll on footpaths up to 15km/h and 25km/h on cycle paths, but they are technically illegal on the road. In Michigan, electric skateboards are now legal. In California, an electrically motorized skateboard is not considered a motorized skateboard if it is less than 60 inches long, less than 18 inches wide, is designed to transport just one person, has an electric propulsion system that averages less than 1,000 watts, and has a maximum speed of less than 20 miles per hour.

Some states have laws prohibiting skateboards on bike lanes and sidewalks

Electric skateboards are not allowed on some bike paths because of laws prohibiting skateboards on bike lanes and sidewalks. In many U.S. states, there are laws that prohibit skateboarders from using bike lanes or sidewalks. This prohibition extends to electric skateboards. However, there are different regulations for different cities. For example, in California, an electrically motorized skateboard is not considered a motorized skateboard if it is less than 60 inches long and less than 18 inches wide, is designed to transport just one person, has an electric propulsion system that averages less than 1,000 watts, and has a maximum speed of less than 20 miles per hour. In Singapore, e-skates are allowed on footpaths up to 15 km/h and on cycle paths up to 25 km/h, but they are technically illegal on the road. In Australia, e-skaters are not allowed on roads with median strips, one-way roads with more than one marked lane, or any road where the speed limit is greater than 50 kilometres per hour.

Electric skateboards are allowed on some college campuses

On the other hand, countries like Australia and Singapore have made progress in giving e-skaters the right to ride on certain types of roads. In Australia, electric skateboards are allowed on roads without median strips, one-way roads with a single marked lane, and roads with a speed limit of less than 50 kilometres per hour. Similarly, in Singapore, e-skates are permitted on footpaths up to 15 kilometres per hour and on cycle paths up to 25 kilometres per hour, but they are not allowed on the road.

It is important for riders to be aware of the local laws and regulations before using their electric skateboards, as there may be stiff penalties for violating them. Some states or cities may have specific requirements, such as the need for a driver's license or equivalent identification to ride an electric skateboard. Additionally, safety considerations, such as wearing a properly fitted helmet, may also be mandated by local laws.

While electric skateboards can provide a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation on college campuses, it is crucial for riders to familiarise themselves with the applicable laws and regulations to ensure a safe and legal riding experience. By doing so, they can help promote the responsible use of electric skateboards and contribute to a positive impact on campus transportation.

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