From the Desk of Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz
‘Did You Know’
Electric
Scooter w/Seat Electric Scooter w/o Seat
“Electric low-speed scooters have clear operational and equipment rules,
under Louisiana Revised Statute 32:300.1.”, states Sheriff Bobby J.
Guidroz, Sheriff of St. Landry Parish.
“While they require no driver’s license, vehicle registration, title or
liability insurance, the operator is still responsible for knowing and
obeying the applicable laws governing their use. They must be ridden as
far to the right side of roadway as possible, though they can use
sidewalks and bicycle paths, provided it is allowed by public ordinance.
Riders under 17 years old MUST wear an approved helmet, and the
scooter must have properly functioning brakes, lights and reflectors.
Operating while intoxicated (DWI/DUI) laws apply to e-scooter riders.”
E-Bikes, or Electric Bicycles
2
“The use of these has been underscored by three fatalities in recent
months, and demonstrates why certain laws exist.”
Sheriff Guidroz continues, “They are defined as Class 1, Class 2 and
Class 3, with Class 3 capable of speeds up to 28 m.p.h. They are legally
regarded as standard bicycles and can be operated anywhere the law
allows a bicycle to travel. Be aware of the following:
- Riders UNDER 12 YEARS OF AGE are strictly prohibited from
operating Class 3 e-bikes. ALL operators and passengers on Class
3 e-bikes MUST WEAR A HELMET regardless of age. - All e-bikes must comply with the same light/reflector requirements
as regular bicycles. - Because properly classified e-bikes are legally excluded from the
definition of motor vehicles, riders are generally exempt from
standard motor vehicle DUI/DWI laws, though they can still face
reckless or unsafe riding or other citations.
