Virginia law:
The laws can (and will) be changed as the technology improves.
Bolt can run at 28 MPH. There's no physical reason why something like a Segway can't be safe running that fast, but the problem is obviously much simpler at lower speeds.
We'll see.
Just to be clear, I think this Segway thing is an interesting toy. Even though home is only about 11 miles from work, I wouldn't even consider one of these things for commuting now. In 10 years? Who knows.
Cheers,
Scott.
"Electric power-assisted bicycle" means a vehicle that travels on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground and is equipped with (i) pedals that allow propulsion by human power and (ii) an electric motor with an input of no more than 1,000 watts that reduces the pedal effort required of the rider. Operators must be at least 14 years old or be under the supervision of someone at least 18 years old. An electric power-assisted bicycle shall be considered a vehicle when operated on a highway.
[...]
“Motorized skateboard or scooter" means every vehicle, regardless of the number of its wheels in contact with the ground, that (i) has no seat, but is designed to be stood upon by the operator, (ii) has no manufacturer-issued vehicle identification number, and (iii) is powered by an electric motor having an input of no more than 1,000 watts or a gasoline engine that displaces less than 36 cubic centimeters. The term "motorized skateboard or scooter" includes vehicles with or without handlebars, but does not include "electric personal assistive mobility devices."
An electric personal assistive mobility device is a self-balancing two-nontandem-wheeled device that is designed to transport only one person and is powered by an electric propulsion system that limits the device's maximum speed to fifteen miles per hour or less. Such devices must be equipped with a system that will enable the user to bring the device to a controlled stop. These devices may be operated on highways with a maximum speed limit of 25 miles per hour or less if no sidewalk is provided or if use of the sidewalk is prohibited. Operators must be at least 14 years old or under the supervision of a person who is at least 18 years old. An electric personal assistive mobility device is considered a vehicle when operated on a highway.
The laws can (and will) be changed as the technology improves.
Bolt can run at 28 MPH. There's no physical reason why something like a Segway can't be safe running that fast, but the problem is obviously much simpler at lower speeds.
We'll see.
Just to be clear, I think this Segway thing is an interesting toy. Even though home is only about 11 miles from work, I wouldn't even consider one of these things for commuting now. In 10 years? Who knows.
Cheers,
Scott.