Quote:
Originally Posted by xinyonghu
(Post 19159897)
why?because of electric?
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http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/tran...ing/gopeds.htm
Miniature motor powered vehicles and the law
Miniature motorcycles, miniature quad bikes and scooters sometimes known as "go peds", which are powered by an electric motor or an engine are, in law, light-weight, powered motor vehicles. They are mostly illegal for road use and can be extremely powerful for their size and capable of travelling at speeds in excess of 40mph.
These types of go peds and powered scooters are generally not intended for "highway" use ("highway" includes the pavement as well as the roads).
They are not suitable - and not legal - for road or pavement use, although many users have taken to riding them on the roads and pavements. These vehicles may be used legally on private land, including parks and forests, only with the direct permission of the landowner, which in many cases will be the local authority.
Safety concerns over these small vehicles have increased in recent months. Under age riders/drivers have been issued with fines as well as motoring penalty points years before they can apply for a driving licence. The machines can be a fun and exhilarating hobby but like ordinary road-going motorcycles, and as powerful machines - potentially dangerous if misused - they must be ridden with caution.
Two High Court judgements have indicated that such machines are motor vehicles within the meaning of the Road Traffic Act 1988. Any powered vehicle used on the public highway must comply with all aspects of road traffic law. For example, it must:
Have European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (or motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval)
Be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
Be road-taxed
Be insured
Comply with the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 as amended and the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 as amended.
Riders must be 16 or over, must hold a valid driving licence, and must wear an approved (E-marked, kite-marked) helmet.
The only powered vehicles to which these requirements do not apply are electrically-assisted pedal cycles (as defined by regulations) or powered wheelchairs and powered scooters designed for disabled people (known as "invalid carriages" in law). Only "invalid carriages" may be used on the pavement beside the road.
Powered vehicles being driven illegally, in a careless or anti-social manner, may be seized by the Police under Police Reform Act 2002 powers. An adult offender is potentially subject to prosecution, a large fine and in the case of habitual offenders, possible imprisonment. The law is there to protect both the rider and other members of the public. Parents and children alike should do all they can to ensure that they are using the machines legally and, above all, safely.
Children using miniature motorcycles, powered scooters and quadricyles
Any child using a miniature motorised vehicle should be closely supervised by adults as the machines can be very fast and there is significant risk of fatal or serious injury. It is highly recommended that children wear full protective clothing at all times, preferably made of thick padded material, similar to specialist clothing worn by adult motorcyclists, as well as an approved crash helmet. In particular the helmet must fit correctly and be securely fastened. Wearing strong shoes and gloves is also advisable.
If using the vehicle in a place which has public access, children should be trained to respect the rights of pedestrians, cyclists and the users of other vehicles. Above all, children should be taught about the dangers of excessive speed and should always be encouraged by parents to use the vehicles responsibly and within the law.
If you notice anybody using a miniature motorised vehicle inappropriately or without proper regard for safety, you should report the matter to your local police.
