Electric scooters, also known as electric wheelchairs or mobile scooters, are a type of transportation designed for people with limited mobility. It combines modern precision machinery with intelligent CNC technology, and through high-performance power drive devices and intelligent control devices, it enables users to easily achieve forward, backward, steering and other operations. The legality and safety of its driving on the road are still controversial. Below JBH will explore whether electric scooters can be driven on the road.
Basic types and classifications of electric scooters
1. Classification by function and design
Electric scooters can be divided into travel type, standard type and heavy type according to function and design. Travel type electric wheelchairs are light and easy to carry, suitable for short-distance travel; standard electric wheelchairs provide basic functions and comfort, suitable for daily use; heavy-duty electric wheelchairs have higher carrying capacity and stability, suitable for users who need to use for a long time or complex terrain.
2. Classification by use environment
Electric scooters can be divided into indoor and outdoor use according to the use environment. Indoor electric wheelchairs are usually compact in design and suitable for operation in small spaces; outdoor electric wheelchairs have stronger power and durability, and can cope with various complex road conditions and weather conditions outdoors.
3. Features of Indoor Electric Wheelchairs
Indoor electric wheelchairs are generally small in size and highly flexible, making them easy to move in indoor environments such as homes and hospitals. These wheelchairs are usually equipped with smaller wheels and shorter wheelbases to accommodate narrow spaces and corners.
4.Features of Outdoor Electric Wheelchairs
Outdoor electric wheelchairs are more rugged in design, have larger tires, have good off-road performance and endurance, and are suitable for use in a variety of outdoor environments. These wheelchairs are usually also equipped with stronger shock absorption systems and protective devices to ensure the safety and comfort of the user.
Laws and Regulations for Electric Scooters
1. Laws and Regulations for Electric Scooters in the United States
In the United States, laws and regulations for electric scooters vary from state to state. Most states require that electric scooters travel at speeds of no more than 20 miles per hour on public roads and must be equipped with headlights, taillights, and reflectors. In addition, drivers usually need to be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver’s license or identification.
2. Laws and Regulations for Electric Scooters in European Countries
In Europe, laws and regulations for electric scooters also vary. For example, Germany requires that electric scooters have a maximum speed of 12 km/h and can only be driven on bicycle lanes. France allows electric scooters to be driven on sidewalks, but the speed limit is 6 km/h.
3. China’s electric scooter laws and regulations
In China, the operation of electric scooters （such as electric scooters and balance cars） on public roads is strictly restricted. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People’s Republic of China, these vehicles may not be driven on motor vehicle lanes, and the speed on non-motor vehicle lanes may not exceed 15 km/h. In addition, drivers must be at least 16 years old.
Speed Limit and Safety Equipment Requirements
In order to ensure safety, many countries and regions have specific requirements for the speed and safety equipment of electric scooters. For example, the United States requires electric scooters to be equipped with brake systems and bells, while some European countries require the installation of turn signals and rearview mirrors.
Driving Qualification Requirements
In addition to age restrictions, some countries and regions also require drivers of electric scooters to pass specific training courses or exams. For example, Japan requires drivers to attend traffic safety lectures and pass theoretical exams and practical operation tests.
Safety Analysis of Electric Scooters on the Road
1.Design Features of Electric Scooters and Their Impact on Safety
Stability: The stability of electric scooters is one of the key factors to ensure safe driving. The design takes into account the low center of gravity and wide wheelbase to improve the stability of the vehicle under different road conditions. In addition, some high-end models are equipped with anti-dumping systems to further enhance driving safety.
Braking System: An effective braking system is essential for safety in emergency situations. Modern electric scooters are usually equipped with electronic braking systems that can provide smooth and rapid deceleration. At the same time, some models also have energy recovery functions to extend battery life by converting energy during braking.
Lights and reflectors: To improve visibility at night or in low-light environments, electric scooters are usually equipped with headlights, taillights, and reflective strips around the body. These devices not only help the driver see the road ahead clearly, but also make it easier for other road users to notice the existence of the electric scooter.
2.How to improve the safety of electric scooters on the road
Regular maintenance and inspection: To ensure that the electric scooter is always in optimal working condition, regular maintenance and inspection are recommended. This includes checking key components such as battery power, tire wear, and brake system performance. If problems are found, the relevant parts should be repaired or replaced in a timely manner.
Comply with traffic rules: Although electric scooters may enjoy certain privileges in some areas, drivers still need to abide by local traffic laws and regulations. For example, do not drive at high speed on the sidewalk, do not run red lights, do not change lanes at will, etc. Complying with the rules can not only protect yourself, but also reduce the risk to others.
Equip with necessary safety equipment: In addition to basic lights and reflective devices, you can also consider installing additional safety equipment such as helmets, knee pads, elbow pads and other protective equipment. These equipment can provide additional protection in the event of a collision and reduce the risk of injury.
In general, whether an electric scooter can be driven on the road depends on multiple factors, including local laws and regulations, the design features of the vehicle, and the driver’s safety awareness. Although some countries and regions allow electric scooters to be driven on the road under certain conditions, drivers still need to comply with relevant speed limits and safety equipment requirements. In addition, regular maintenance and inspection, compliance with traffic rules, and equipping with necessary safety equipment are also key measures to ensure the safe driving of electric scooters.
