Q&A
Aids Understanding Of Limits On Toy Vehicles
PHOENIX - A new city ordinance that bans
motorized skateboards and other play vehicles from city streets and
sidewalks is apparently causing a lot of confusion among residents.
So City Council members held a news conference Tuesday to answer
questions about the new rules, which include civil penalties and fines
for residents and retailers.
Officials say that the ordinance is necessary because the scooters and
other vehicles pose a safety hazard, adding that they have been
receiving an escalating number of complaints about them.
"None of us wants to see our
10-year-old children riding these little bitty (vehicles) and going up
against a 4,000-pound car," said Officer Terry Sills of the city's
traffic and education safety unit.
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about the city's new
ordinance, which is already in effect.
QUESTION: What types of vehicles are included?
ANSWER: The ordinance defines motorized play vehicles
as a coaster, scooter or any other device that is self-propelled by a
motor or engine. Those vehicles that are prohibited under the
ordinance include pocket bikes, motorized skateboards, electric-razor
scooters and other vehicles that have a deck on which a person can ride
and at least two tandem wheels that come in contact with the ground.
Q: Does this mean that motor-powered wheelchairs are banned, too?
A: No. The ordinance specifically excludes motorized wheelchairs or
other electric mobility devices.
Q: Where can the scooters, motorized skateboards and play vehicles
be used?
A: They are now allowed only on private property with the written
consent of the owner. That means they cannot be used in parks, on
sidewalks, on streets or in alleys.
Q: What happens if a person is cited for using the play vehicles in
violation of the city's rules?
A: Anyone found using the vehicles in the public right-of-way could
receive a civil traffic ticket. The maximum penalty for the violation
is $250.
Q: I live outside Phoenix. Will this affect me?
A: The new ordinance applies only within Phoenix's city limits.
However, other municipalities have their own rules governing the toys.
Q: Can retailers still sell skateboards and play vehicles?
A: Yes. But merchants who sell the toys must post, in a prominent
place, a notice that states that the ordinance does not allow them to be
ridden on public property.
Q: When will officers begin citing residents?
A: The ordinance is already in effect. But the Police
Department has instituted a two-week grace period, which means
officers will not begin citing residents until Jan. 3.
Q: Where can residents and retailers get more information?
A: Questions can be directed to Officer Terry Sills, Traffic
Education and Safety Unit, at (602) 495-0964.
*
Written by Ginger D. Richardson for The Arizona Republic, 12-22-04.
**Link to the original 12-17-04 article
banning Phoenix scooters at:
****
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