"Go-Peds" -- little motorized scooters that have become both so popular and so controversial at the same time. On the one hand they seem like such fun for the kids, and even some adults, to ride on. On the other hand, they have been a constant source of complaints ranging from excessive noise to child safety issues to traffic hazard issues.
The problem with Go-Peds, is that they are not being used as they were designed to be used, as a toy to be ridden around for pleasure on private property. Go-Peds were never intended to become a source of transportation for kids, and have never been legal to ride on either streets or sidewalks. Unfortunately, they have now become just that...transportation to and from place to place. They are being ridden on the sidewalks creating danger for the pedestrians, and they are being ridden on the streets in front of moving cars with putting at risk the lives of the children who are riding them.
The Jupiter Police Department wants everyone to be aware of the most recent opinion from the Office of the Attorney General for the State of Florida regarding the operation of Go-Peds.
The following are verbatim excerpts from a September 25th, 2003, letter from Charlie Crist, Attorney General of the State of Florida concerning GoPeds.
"I am of the opinion that pursuant to Chapter 322, Florida Statutes, the operator of any motor vehicle, including motorized scooters, on the public roadways is required to have a driver's license..."
"The definition of "motor vehicle" in Chapter 320, Florida Statutes, also includes motorized scooters. While that chapter requires any motor vehicle to be registered, there is no classification for motorized scooters. The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has therefore advised that since such vehicles may not be registered, they may not be operated upon the public streets and roads. While motorized scooters are excluded from the definition of "motor vehicle" for purposes of Chapter 316, Florida Statutes, they still constitute "vehicles" as that term is defined in Chapter 316, and therefore are prohibited from operating on sidewalks..."
"Electric personal assistive mobility devices, however, are specifically authorized to be operated on certain roads and on sidewalks without a driver' license and without being registered."
The Jupiter Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of the residents and families in the Town of Jupiter through educational programs to make everyone aware of the laws and their meaning, and through the progressive enforcement of these laws. If you need additional information concerning the laws about Go-Peds, please contact any member of the Jupiter Police Department’s Community Activities Unit or Traffic Enforcement Unit. We’ll be glad to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
For Information, Please Call The Jupiter Police Department At 746-6201. We’ll Be Glad To Help.
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