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Motorized Bikes and Mopeds
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Along with the increased popularity of
"Scooter-Style" motorized vehicles, there has also been an increase of
questions about them. The following information is intended to
answer some general questions we have received regarding these
Motor-Scooters / Motorized Bikes / Mopeds. If, after reading this
information, you have additional questions, please feel free to speak
with an officer about your concerns by calling 970-867-5678. Under Colorado law, these vehicles are considered Motorized Bicycles and are defined as follows:
Registration: Every Motorized Bicycle needs to be registered with its stamped identification number. They need to be registered with the State Department of Revenue for a fee of $5.00. The registration lasts for three years. Upon registering the vehicle, you will receive a decal that must be placed in a conspicuous place on the frame of the vehicle. No license plate is required. Driver's License: Operators of Motorized Bikes and Mopeds must possess a valid driver's license. No special endorsement is required. Insurance: While Colorado law does not require a Motorized Bike to be insured, it is strongly suggested that insurance coverage be obtained before operating any motorized vehicle on a public roadway. Other Requirements: Any Motorized Bike or Moped operated on a public roadway where travel is permitted must abide by all normal traffic rules. These include but are not limited to: 1. Forward-facing light
visible from 500 feet. It is also worth mentioning here that a new law takes effect on July 1, 2007. This law states that any person under the age of 18 who is operating or riding on a motorcycle or Motorized Bicycle must wear a helmet. In summary - Motorized Bicycles can be operated on city streets PROVIDED: they are registered with the Department of Revenue, the operator has a valid driver's license, they stay along the right edge or in a bike lane, and the required equipment is on the vehicle. Motorized Bicycles are treated like a car or truck and must follow all regulations and guidelines pertaining to them. If you have additional questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us 970-867-5678. |
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Motorized Skateboards |
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Motorized Scooters You have seen them and maybe have one yourself. They
are often called by the brand name "Go Ped" but there are many
different brands. Most often they are a self-propelled device that has
an electric or gas motor and a deck on which a person can ride. They
generally have at least two tandem wheels in contact with the ground and
handlebars. The electric or gas powered motors are capable of propelling
the device without human propulsion. |
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The Fort Morgan Police Department has received numerous complaints and inquires regarding the legality of Motorized Scooters operated within the City of Fort Morgan. Undoubtedly owners of these popular vehicles need to be made aware of the laws that pertain to them. The Fort Morgan Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of the residents and families in the City of Fort Morgan. It is because of this commitment we are providing this educational pamphlet regarding the legal use of motorized scooters commonly referred to as "Go-Peds" within the City limits. We hope that parents and their children will discuss
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Who can ride them? There is no legal limit on who can ride a motorized scooter. Common sense should be used when allowing children to ride. Parents should be certain if they allow their children to ride they can do so responsibly and are physically capable of controlling the scooter. No driver’s license is required because motorized scooters can not legally be operated on a public street. Can I ride my motorized scooter on the street? If you own a motorized scooter, you are not allowed to operate it on the public streets of the City of Fort Morgan. A motorized scooter or motorized skateboard does not
fall under the definition of a motorized bicycle or a motor-driven cycle
or motorcycle and is not designed for travel on public streets. Can I ride my motorized scooter on the sidewalk? The use of public sidewalks is limited to pedestrians,
bicycles, or other human-powered vehicles (including human-powered
skateboards, scooters, and roller blades); therefore, a motorized scooter cannot
be legally operated on a public sidewalk. What is the law? Under the City of Fort Morgan Model Traffic code, a motorized scooter falls under the definition of a "toy vehicle."
The Model Traffic Code, section 109(9) prohibits the use of motorized scooters on public roadways and states: "It is unlawful for any person upon roller skates or riding in or by means of any coaster, toy vehicle, or similar device to go upon any roadway except while crossing a highway in a crosswalk, and when so crossing such persons shall be granted all the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to pedestrians." This provision covers skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, motorized skateboards, motorized scooters, or "Go-Peds," and all toy vehicles, regardless of the age of the user. Section 710(3) of the Model Traffic Code prohibits the use of a motorized scooter on the sidewalk. This section of the Model traffic Code states: "No person shall drive any vehicle other than a bicycle or any other human-powered vehicle upon a sidewalk or sidewalk area, except upon a permanent or duly authorized temporary driveway." What are the penalties? Any person who violates Section 109(9) and rides a motorized scooter or similar device on a public roadway can be ticketed and subject to a fine of $30.00. In addition, any parent or guardian who knowingly permits a child to violate section 109(9) could be cited and subject to a fine of $15.00. Any person violating Section 710(3) and rides a motorized scooter or similar device upon a public sidewalk in the City can be ticketed and subject to a fine of $40.00 and a penalty assessment of three (3) points against your driver’s license. Where can I ride? If you own a motorized scooter or "Go-Ped" or similar device you can only legally operate it on private property when you have the property owner’s permission. This includes most parking lots, driveways, or other surfaced locations.
It is recommend that if you receive permission to ride your motorized scooter on private property, you get the permission in writing from the property owner. Common sense suggestions: Some common sense suggestions when riding a motorized scooter:
If you need additional information concerning the laws about motorized scooters, please contact any member of the Fort Morgan Police Department. We will be glad to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
Fort Morgan Police Department 901 East Beaver Avenue Fort Morgan, CO 80701 867- 5678 |
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Fort
Morgan Police Department, 901 E. Beaver Avenue, Fort Morgan, CO 80701
Window Clerk on Duty: Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Clerk and Voice Mail:
970-542-3930
Dispatch Personnel on Duty 24/7
Non-Emergency Phone:
970-867-5678
Emergency Phone: 911