There’s been a lot of discussion lately about the use of electric scooters, unicycles, hoverboards, etc., on the roadways in Pennsylvania. Please take a moment and review the PA micromobility fact sheet to see what is legal to ride and where.
Golf Carts- Title 75 (section 77a) of 2023, indicates it is unlawful to operate a golf cart on any highway. A golf cart may be operated on private property and make a direct crossing of a highway upon compliance with the following requirements: (1) the crossing is made at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the direction of the highway and at a place where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing.
(2) the golf cart is brought to a complete stop before crossing the shoulder or main-traveled way of the highway. (3) the driver yields the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic.
A golf cart may not be operated by anyone under the age of 12 and a person between 12-16 years of age may not drive a golf cart across any highway unless the person is under the direct supervision of a person 18 years of age or older.
Ebikes -May be operated on sidewalks and roadways in Pennsylvania, unless prohibited by local ordinance. They are prohibited on freeways. They are classified as a vehicle, but not a motor vehicle and is exempt from titling, registration, insurance, etc. They should follow laws related to and be treated by motorists the same as a bicycle.
Segway- Defined as an EPAMD, Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device- A self-balancing, two-nontandem-wheeled device designed to transport only one person with an electric propulsion system. They are allowed to be operated on sidewalks and the berm of a roadway unless prohibited by local ordinance. They are not required to be registered, etc.
Electric Wheelchair- Specifically designed for and used by an individual with mobility-related disability in lieu of walking, can be used on the berm of a roadway. These devices are not considered vehicles according to the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code. Operators of these devices should follow laws related to and be treated by motorist the same as a pedestrian.
Electric Scooters- They are prohibited on the roadways and only be operated on private property.
Electric Unicycles-They are prohibited on the roadways and only be operated on private property
Staying Informed -
It’s important to be aware that rules and regulations about electric scooters can change. Keep yourself up-to-date through these sources:
