Electric scooters have become a familiar sight across Texas neighborhoods, offering kids and teens a fun and fast way to get around. However, local officials are reminding families that while e-scooters are convenient, they are not toys, and crashes can lead to serious injuries, particularly when riders skip safety gear like helmets.
Safety experts urge parents to talk with their children about rules of the road, personal responsibility, and the importance of following traffic laws. Under Texas law, all riders on public roads must obey the same traffic regulations as other vehicles, including signaling turns and observing posted speed limits.
According to the Texas Transportation Code §551.352, motor-assisted scooters can operate on certain roadways and sidewalks, but with restrictions:
- Scooters may only be ridden on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less.
- Riders can only cross higher speed roads at intersections.
- Cities and counties can restrict scooter use on specific streets, highways, or sidewalks if it’s deemed necessary for public safety.
- Scooters are also permitted on bike paths and sidewalks, following the same rules that apply to bicycles.
- Vehicle laws that apply to cars or motorcycles generally do not apply to scooters.
Officials note that many major roads in the area exceed the 35 mph limit, meaning scooters are best suited for residential neighborhoods and designated bike paths.
Whether you’re a parent, a teen rider, or simply sharing the road with scooters, the message is the same: Ride smart, follow the law, and put safety first.