This month the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department will start enforcing the city ordinances and state laws regarding riding and parking a motorized scooter.  Operating a motorized scooter while intoxicated is a crime and you could be charged with an OVWI, Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated.  It is a criminal offense, could be reported to the BMV and negatively impact your driving record. Scooter riders should approach their use of the scooters as they would  driving a car and follow all traffic laws.

Although, wearing a helmet is encouraged by both the city and motorized scooter companies; however, Indiana does not have a law mandating the use of helmets for motorized or nonmotorized vehicles like bicycles.  In other words, you should not be stopped for not wearing a helmet, as of October 2018.

Scooters riders must use roads and bike lanes.  Riding motorized scooters on sidewalks and trails (including the Monan and cultural trails) is currently prohibited.  Although some scooter riders have chosen to ride in the middle of the street, it is not recommended because of their speed limit.

Additionally, the police are issuing citations for people that operate the scooters on sidewalks, trails or the canal. The first citation issued requires the rider to pay $20. If the fine  is not paid within 28 days, then it doubles to $40. In addition to issuing citations or arresting scooter riders, there are rules for where scooters can be parked.  The new city regulations that were passed in July have at eight restricted areas where scooters cannot be parked.  The list of restricted areas include driveways, curb ramps, handicapped parking spaces and loading zones.  The company may receive a $25 fine if the motorized scooter is left in any of the places.  Of course, the companies could then try and track down the rider and pass the fine on to them.

If you or someone you know receives a citation, gets arrested or is in accident involving a scooter, please contact the  Law Office of Mark Nicholson  so your rights can be protected.

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