SCOOTER / MOPED / E-BIKE UPDATES

The term “scooter” refers to an entire array of different vehicles, so it’s very important for New Jersey residents involved in a scooter accident to verify the exact type of scooter they were operating at the time of their crash.

Motorized scooters typically fall under the definition of a motorcycle, but an electric scooter is much different.

The following is what New Jersey Law defines a scooter as: a “motorized scooter” means a miniature motor vehicle and includes, but is not limited to, pocket bikes, super pocket bikes, scooters, mini-scooters, sport scooters, mini choppers, mini motorcycles, motorized skateboards, and other vehicles with motors that are not manufactured in compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and which have no permanent Federal Safety Certification stickers affixed to the vehicle by the original manufacturer.

The law that was established last May defines “low-speed electric scooters” as: a scooter with a floorboard that can be stood upon by the operator, with handlebars, and an electric motor that is capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion at a maximum speed of less than 19 miles per hour.

Scooter Laws in New Jersey

E-scooters are required to follow all of New Jersey’s bike laws, which also means that e-scooter riders must follow the same laws as vehicles. This includes following the flow and general direction of traffic and obeying traffic signals.

E-scooters may be parked on sidewalks, but they aren’t allowed to block the access of pedestrians. The use of e-scooters on sidewalks and other trails has been left up to local municipalities. 

E-bikes in New Jersey are classified into three categories based on their maximum assisted speed. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are generally allowed on bicycle paths, while Class 3 e-bikes may have additional restrictions. Riders must follow traffic laws and local ordinances when operating e-bikes on public roads.

The following are some of the main laws associated with electric scooters

• Max speeds of 19 mph
• Cannot block pedestrian traffic when parked on sidewalks
• No registration, license or insurance is required for using e-scooters
• Helmets are required for anyone under 17
• Riders must follow all bicycle laws
• Municipalities decide sidewalk/trail riding rules

If you’re going to use a motorized scooter in New Jersey, you should fully know and follow all the rules in order to avoid tickets and potential confiscations. The following is a brief overview of the motor scooter laws in New Jersey. Note that this list is an overview and is not exhaustive:

• If the motorized scooter is 50cc or less, then it’s not considered a motorcycle. (Note: “cc” stands for “cubic centimeters,” often used as a measurement of engine size).
• Motorized scooters are considered motor vehicles, so you must be at least 16 years old and hold a Class E driver’s license, or a motorcycle-only license. Learner’s permit holders are not allowed to operate motorized scooters.
• If the scooter is under 50cc or cannot exceed 30 mph on flat ground, then the operator is not required to wear a helmet. But, passengers under 16 are always required to wear a helmet.
• The law doesn’t require moped or motorized scooter owners to carry insurance, but for the most part, it’s always best to have some type of coverage.
• Scooters under 50cc are not allowed on highways or interstates (which isn’t safe regardless of how powerful the scooter!)
• It’s against the law to lane split or rides on yellow lines to pass through stopped traffic.
• If a scooter is on a roadway and operating under the normal flow of traffic, then the operator must stay close to the right side edge of the road, except when turning left.
• Motorized scooters are not allowed to use bike or pedestrian lanes.

What Are the Helmet Laws for Motorcyclists in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, all motorcycle operators and passengers, regardless of age, must wear a securely-fitted helmet. The helmet should be the correct size for the wearer’s head and must be of a type approved by the state’s motor vehicle authorities.

Helmets are also required to have either a neck or chin strap and must be reflectorized on both sides to enhance visibility. Additionally, protective eyewear is mandatory for all motorcycle operators, ensuring extra safety on the road.

The Motor Vehicle Director is responsible for setting the rules and regulations concerning approved helmet types and specifications. They maintain a list of helmets that meet these standards.

Since regulations can change, it’s wise to check with the Motor Vehicle Director for the latest updates before riding in New Jersey.

Licensing Requirements for Different Vehicle Types

In the State of New Jersey, a motorized bicycle or moped is defined as a bicycle that also has the following characteristics:

• Motor Specification: Has a motor that is less than 50 ccs (if powered by gas) and produces 1.5 brake horsepower or less.
• Speed Limit: Can’t propel itself faster than 25 mph on level ground.

It’s important to note that motor-driven tricycles are not legal to operate on public roadways.

To operate a moped in New Jersey, riders must obtain a moped license or have a valid automobile driver’s license. The process involves passing a written test and a vision screening. For scooters over 50cc, a motorcycle license is required.

Licensing requirements in New Jersey vary by vehicle type:

• Mopeds (under 50cc): Valid automobile driver’s license or special moped license
• Scooters/motorcycles (50cc and above): Motorcycle license required
• E-bikes: No special license needed, but age restrictions apply
• Electric scooters: No license required, but riders must be 18 or older

This comprehensive definition and licensing guideline ensures that New Jersey residents understand the distinctions and requirements for operating various types of motorized vehicles.

Motorcycle operation in New Jersey is defined under specific guidelines:

• A motorcycle is any vehicle, including motor bikes, bicycles, and tricycles (aka trike) with attached motors.
• All residents operating a motorcycle must have a motorcycle endorsement on their existing driver’s license or a separate motorcycle license.
• All motorcycles must be titled, registered, and insured, ensuring compliance with state regulations.

To obtain a moped license, you must:

1. Be at least 15 years old
2. Pass a written test on NJ moped laws and safety
3. Pass a vision test
4. Pay the required fee

For motorcycle licenses, additional testing and a Motorcycle Safety Course are typically required.

What Are the Registration and Insurance Requirements for Mopeds in New Jersey?

• The law doesn’t require moped or motorized scooter owners to carry insurance, but for the most part, it’s always best to have some type of coverage. If you’re planning to drive a moped on public roads in New Jersey, there are some key requirements to keep in mind.

To legally operate your moped, you’ll need:

1. A Valid Driver’s License: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license. This is a must-have for hitting the road.

2. Moped Registration: Head to your local MVC (Motor Vehicle Commission) Agency to register your moped. Don’t forget to bring:

   • A certificate of origin or the current title and registration papers.
   • A Bill of Sale.
   • Proof of insurance, even though it’s not legally required, it’s a wise precaution.

3. Insurance Considerations: While insurance isn’t mandated by law, having coverage can protect you against unforeseen incidents and provide peace of mind.

Road Rules and Speed Limits for Scooters and Mopeds

In New Jersey, road rules for scooters and mopeds include:

• Maximum speed limit: 25 mph for mopeds, typically 19 mph for electric scooters
• Road access: Generally prohibited on roads with speed limits over 35 mph
• Lane position: Ride as far right as practicable, unless turning left or avoiding hazards
• Passengers: Not allowed on most scooters and mopeds under 50cc
• Lighting: Headlight and taillight required for night riding

Always obey traffic signals and signs, and be extra cautious at intersections where drivers may not expect slower-moving vehicles.

E-Bike Classifications and Regulations in New Jersey

New Jersey classifies e-bikes into three categories:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph
• Class 2: Throttle-assisted, with a maximum speed of 20 mph
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph

E-bikes are generally allowed on bicycle paths and roads, but local municipalities may have specific restrictions, especially for Class 3 e-bikes. Riders must be at least 15 years old and helmets are required for those under 17.

Electric Scooter Rentals and Sharing Programs

Several New Jersey cities have embraced electric scooter sharing programs:

• Hoboken: Lime scooters available throughout the city
• Asbury Park: Seasonal rentals from companies like Spin
• Jersey City: Bird scooters in designated areas

Users typically need to download an app, locate a scooter, and follow local riding rules. Always park in designated areas and be aware of geofencing restrictions that may limit where you can ride.

Safety and Insurance

Riders of scooters and mopeds in New Jersey are required to wear DOT-approved helmets. While insurance is not mandatory for mopeds under 50cc, it is highly recommended. For larger scooters and motorcycles, insurance is required by law.

What Do New Scooter Laws Mean for New Jersey?

The new scooter laws in New Jersey mean that it will likely become easier for people to purchase both e-scooters and e-bikes for personal use, and rental scooter and bike companies are likely to continue to emerge throughout municipalities all across the state. These companies, like Lime, Bird, and Jump, have grown in popularity all over urban areas across the country, and now the e-scooter craze is expanding in New Jersey.

9-1-1 and #77 Emergency Message

Each year millions of cellular telephone calls regarding roadside emergencies and life-threatening accidents pour into New Jersey's emergency call centers. The calls come in through the motorists use of the 9-1-1 System, the #77 Dangerous Driver System, and various other cellular hotlines that have been established. It is very important to use the appropriate system to report incidents you observe, so that the right priority is given to your call and it is properly directed.

Generally, 9-1-1 should be used to report life-threatening emergencies, such as motor vehicle accidents, disabled motor vehicles, all suspected criminal activity, and other general emergencies requiring immediate police or medical service response. 9-1-1 calls are priority calls and services are dispatched immediately.

The #77 Dangerous Driver System should be used to report aggressive or erratic driving that poses a risk to other motorists on the roadway. While these calls are important, 9-1-1 calls are prioritized over #77 calls as required by law. In #77 call response, police services are made aware of the report and respond according to availability and proximity to the incident, as well as, seriousness of the report. This system should not be used to report 9-1-1 emergencies.

Callers are reminded that when using either system, current wireless phone technology does not automatically provide calltakers with the information they need to provide appropriate response to the emergency. That's why it is important for all wireless users to remember to provide calltakers with the exact location of the incident (roadway, direction, milepost), type of emergency, description of those involved(vehicle registration, make, color), and a callback phone number.

As always, safety of the motorists is our first concern, so if you need to use the above services when driving, please pull over to a safe place, and then provide as much specific information as possible. The more detailed information you provide, the quicker we can help.

As of September 1, 2015, the NJ Car Seat Law will change.  The Legislation is a bit difficult to understand, but if you abide by the following 5 steps you should be in compliance and your child will remain safe while traveling.

Any child under the age of 8 years old and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as follows in the rear seat of a motor vehicle:

1.    Children under the age of two (2) and weighing less than 30 pounds must be in a rear facing car seat equipped with a five-point harness. The car seat must be in a rear seat of the vehicle.

2.    From age two (2) through the age of four (4) and weighing up to 40 pounds, children must be secured in a seat with a five-point harness, either rear facing (up to the height and weight limits of the particular seat) or forward facing in the rear seat of the vehicle with a five-point harness.

3.    For ages four until age eight and less than 57” (4’9”), children must be seated in either a car seat with a five-point harness or a booster seat secured with the restraint required by the manufacturer, also in the rear set of the vehicle.

4.    Age 8 through 17 must wear a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt.

5.     If there are no rear seats (e.g., standard cab pickup truck), the child must be secured in the appropriate car seat or booster for their age, weight, and height, in the front passenger seat. If the child is in a rear-facing car seat, the passenger side airbag must be disabled or turned off.

Link to new law:                               http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2014/Bills/PL15/50_.PDF

Any further questions or concerns can be forwarded to the UCTOA by visiting WWW.UCTOA.COM and going to “Contact Us” and e-mailing a your question.  It will be answered in a timely fashion as to help you keep your family safe.  Also further information will be made available on our website, and also through your local hospitals an pediatricians.

Special thanks to NJDHTS. 

Ice & Snow - Remove It Before You Go

Remember to remove all ice and snow from your vehicle before driving, especially from the hood, windows and roof. It’s the law in New Jersey! Motorists who fail to do so face fines of $25 to $75 for each offense, regardless of whether the ice and snow is dislodged from the vehicle. If flying ice or snow causes property damage or injury to others, motorists face fines of $200 to $1,000 for each offense.