E-Scooter Laws In Washington, D.C.



The rise in electric scooter usage calls for the establishment of regulations and safety protocols to safeguard the well-being of both e-scooter operators and pedestrians. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the e-scooter laws in the area to avoid potential fines or accidents.

Licenses and Registration

In Washington, D.C., you don’t need a driver’s license or any form of registration to operate an electric scooter.

Age Restrictions

To legally ride an e-scooter in Washington, D.C., you must be at least 16 years old.

Where to Ride

According to the regulations in Washington, D.C., it is prohibited to operate e-scooters on sidewalks within the Central Business District. However, they may be ridden in bike lanes if they are accessible. If a bike lane is not present, e-scooters can also be ridden on low-speed roads. 

Riding in bike lanes and low-speed streets helps ensure everyone’s safety while maintaining a smooth flow of traffic. Outside of the Central Business District, you can ride e-scooters on sidewalks as long as you abide by the rules.

Speed Limits and Pedestrian Safety

E-scooter riders must observe a maximum speed limit of 10 MPH to ensure the safety of pedestrians and other road users. Riders should always yield to pedestrians, provide ample space when passing, and be prepared to react to unexpected obstacles or situations.

Riding Under the Influence

Operating an e-scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can result in a $150 fine. Remember that safety comes first when using any form of transportation, so stay sober when riding to avoid accidents and legal consequences.

Access to Bike Paths

Riding e-scooters on bike paths is permitted in Washington, D.C. This provides a safer space for riders to navigate the city and encourages more active modes of transportation. Be respectful of other users on the bike path, and always maintain a safe speed and distance from others.

The Vulnerable User Collision Recovery Act

The Vulnerable User Collision Recovery Act was created in Washington D.C. to give extra legal protection to pedestrians, bike riders, and other at-risk road users in case they experience an accident caused by a driver’s negligence. The act makes it easier for these users to recover financial compensation for injuries and damages sustained in such accidents.

Under this act, if an accident occurs while using an e-scooter, the vulnerable user is entitled to financial recovery from the car driver, unless the vulnerable user is found to be more than 50% negligent. This means, as long as the e-scooter rider is 50% or less responsible for the accident, they can seek compensation from the at-fault car driver.

Tips for riding e-scooters in Washington, D.C.

To make the most of your e-scooter experience, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Know the laws: Familiarize yourself with the e-scooter laws and regulations in Washington, D.C., to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
  2. Wear a helmet: Although it is only required for riders under 16, wearing a helmet is a wise safety precaution for all e-scooter riders.
  3. Be mindful of pedestrians: Maintain a safe distance from pedestrians and always yield to them, especially in crowded areas or during rush hour.
  4. Use bike lanes when possible: While e-scooters are allowed on sidewalks, utilizing bike lanes provides a safer and more efficient route when available.
  5. Stay visible at night: Use your e-scooter’s lights and consider wearing reflective clothing to increase your visibility in low-light conditions.

If you’ve been involved in an e-scooter accident and need help, contact our Washington, D.C. e-scooter accident lawyers at Lightfoot Law to schedule a free consultation.