After the scooter accident off Sylvan Road North this week that sent a teen to the hospital in serious condition, several readers contacted “06880.”
Each described seeing — in some cases almost hitting, or watching someone else hit — scooter drivers.
Scooters are everywhere these days, including the very dangerous Post Road.
What are the laws?
Lieutenant Anthony Prezioso, of the Westport Police Department’s Patrol Division, tells “06880”:
“First, to be considered a scooter the device must not be able to exceed 20 miles per hour.
“Riders must be at least 15 years old. Those under 18 must wear a helmet.
“The law prohibits scooters being ridden on sidewalks, highways and expressways, as well as on streets with speed limits exceeding 20 miles an hour.
“A local ordinance could further dictate how and where these scooters are able to be ridden. We do not currently have such an ordinance on the books in Westport, and therefore are solely regulated by the state law.”
Enforcement is not always easy. In an “06880” story last fall about e-bikes, Prezioso noted that police do not want to make a dangerous situation worse.
Teenagers can panic, and try to flee. Officers must use their best judgment. Sometimes, they’ll simply follow the rider to his destination.
Prezioso adds: “As electric vehicle technology quickly evolves, it will continue to pose challenges to enforcement. It will likely also prompt legislators to better define the classifications of various types of electric bikes, scooters, motorcycle, etc.
“I believe the evolution of these laws will likely be a more city/town ordinance-based approach. We’ve seen the increased presence of electric scooters for rent in major metropolitan areas. In almost every case, the rules for their use are dictated by city ordinance.”
Meanwhile, Prezioso urges residents to attend an e-bike community forum (planned before the most recent accident).
The May 13 event (6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will cover rules and regulations (for riders and motorists), street awareness, and tips and resources for all ages. A Q-and-A session will follow.
