The official word from the NZ TRANSPORT AGENCY:
BioMoov always recommends that people considering any sort of electric scooter should be familiar with the rules and regulations.
They are fairly accommodating, taking into account the various abilities and requirements of people using such scooters. Here’s the section on legal responsibilities that you must be aware of:
You don’t need a driver’s license to operate a wheeled mobility device, nor are they required to have a warrant of fitness or registration. However, there are some important legal safety requirements that you need to know about.
- You must operate your mobility scooter in a careful and considerate manner.
- You must use the footpath when one is readily accessible, and stay close to the side of the road where a footpath is not readily accessible.
- When on the footpath, you mustn’t travel at a speed that endangers others.
- It’s illegal for you to ride, or let any person ride, in a way that may cause you or them injury.
- If you are involved in a crash, you must stop to see if anyone is injured and report the crash to the Police within 24 hours.
It’s important to be aware that careless use of a mobility scooter does carry legal implications. For example, operating a mobility device carelessly, inconsiderately or at a hazardous speed can result in you being fined $100 (or more if you are repeatedly found doing so).
If you cause a crash where someone is injured or killed, you could be convicted of careless or inconsiderate use of a vehicle, and face a fine of up to $4,500 or up to three months imprisonment.
For more information on your legal responsibilities:
- Call 0800 699 000
- or go to the NZTA website
