Motorized Scooters, Pocket Bikes and Motorized Skateboards
Over the last few years, motorized scooters and “pocket bikes” have become popular with young people. When first introduced, these scooters were a specialty item and were relatively expensive. They are now widely available and much more affordable.
The O’Fallon Police Department was inundated this past summer with calls from citizens with questions about these scooters. Specifically, residents wanted to know if they were legal to ride on the roadway or sidewalks in the City of O’Fallon.
The Illinois Vehicle Code defines a motor vehicle as “Every vehicle which is self-propelled and every vehicle which is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires, but not operated upon rails, except for vehicles moved solely by human power and motorized wheelchairs.”
A motorcycle is defined as “Every motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, but excluding a tractor”.
A motorized pedal cycle is defined as “a motor-driven cycle whose speed attainable in one mile is 30 mph or less, which is equipped with a motor that produces two brake horsepower or less.” If an internal combustion engine is used, the displacement shall not exceed 50 cubic centimeters displacement and the power drive system shall not require the operator to shift gears.
What the above definitions mean is that motorized scooters, pocket bikes, motorized skate boards and similar items are considered motor vehicles and are subject to the laws of the State of Illinois and the ordinances of the City of O’Fallon.
If operated on the public roadway, the operator must have a valid driver’s license. The vehicle must be equipped with the required safety equipment, be licensed and insured. The operators are also required to follow the “rules of the road” governing the movement of motor vehicles in traffic.
No motor vehicle may lawfully be operated on the sidewalks in the City of O’Fallon. The owner’s manuals that accompany most of these vehicles warn the owner that they are not designed to be operated on the roadway and are designed for “off road use only”. These vehicles may be lawfully operated on private property, in most instances, with the property owner’s permission.
A common question often asked by parents and operators is, “If they are illegal to ride on the roads, then why are they sold?” The answer to that question is that they are not illegal to sell. The vendor is under no obligation to inform the buyer that their use may be restricted, depending on State law. It is always the buyer’s responsibility to read the owner’s manual completely prior to operation.
It is always the O’Fallon Police Department’s goal to promote safety for all citizens. It is also the Department’s goal to inform the public so that voluntary compliance with the Illinois Vehicle Code and the Ordinances of the City of O’Fallon is achieved.
Further questions on the subject can be answered by contacting the O’Fallon Police Department at 624-4545.
Help Wanted
Community Crossing Guard
Substitute position needed to assist at designated intersections during the school year. Must enjoy children; must be able to work in hot, cold or wet conditions and be able to learn basic first aid.
$9.55 per hour up to 12 hours per week
| 
