E-Ride Guide

<h1> E-Ride Guide </h1>\ <h4> A quick guide to e-mobility rides </h4>\ \<p> Not sure what kind of electric ride (e-ride) you've got? Pick the features that match your vehicle, and the guide will show you: * What Washington law calls your ride * Who can use it * Where you're allowed to ride it Links to related laws are included. </p> <h5>Disclaimer and Reminder:</h5>\ \<h6> \* This is not meant to be legal advice. * WTSC does not endorse riding any type of e-mobility device while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. * Law enforcement seeking guidance can always reach out to a Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor.</h6>\ \<button class="button">[[Let's get started->Wheels]]</button> \<style> img { max-width: 50%; max-height: 50% } \</style> <img src="https://www.thewisedrive.com/e-bike/".png> </div>

<h3>Wheels</h3>\ \<p>How many wheels does the vehicle have?</p>\ \<h4> [[One->One-Vehicle Speed]] [[Two->Two-Pedals]] [[Three->Three-Pedals]] [[Four]] </h4>

<h3> Vehicle Speed </h3>\ \<p> How fast can the vehicle go on flat ground? </p>\ \<h4> [[Less than 20 mph->EPAMD]] [[20 mph or more->Non-conforming vehicle]] </h4>

<h3> Pedals </h3>\ \<p> Does the vehicle have pedals? </p>\ [[Yes, it has pedals->Yes pedals-Vehicle Speed]] [[No, it doesn't have pedals->No pedals - Wheel Configuration]]

<h3> Pedals </h3>\ \<p> Does the vehicle have pedals? </p>\ [[Yes, it has pedals->Yes pedals-Vehicle Speed]] [[No, it doesn't have pedals->No Pedals-Vehicle Speed]]

<h3> Vehicle Speed </h3>\ \<p> How fast can the vehicle go on flat ground? </p>\ \<h4> [[15 mph->Vehicle Use]] [[20 mph->Purpose]] [[20-25 mph ->Safety Standards NEV]] [[25-35 mph ->Safety Standards MEV]] [[More than 35 mph->Safety Standards]] </h4>

<h4> You can ride an EPAMD on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>Yes</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(11)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Yes, but may have local restrictions</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(11)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(3)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(11)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>Yes, but may have local restrictions</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(12)(c)</a></td> </tr> </table> \<h5>-Local jurisdictions may prohibit the operation of an EPAMD on road with speed limits greater than 25 mph. -Local jurisdictions may restrict the speed of an EPAMD in locations with heavy pedestrian and non-motorized traffic. -EPAMDs may be regulated in recreation, open space, habitat, trails, or conservation areas</h5> \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Motor Vehicle </h3>\ \<p> A motor vehicle is a vehicle that is self-propelled. Exceptions: * EPAMD * Power wheelchair * Golf cart (with limitations) * Personal delivery device Motor vehicles are required to meet safety standards, must be registered, and operators must have a license. <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.04.320" target="_blank">Revised Code of Washington: Motor Vehicle definition</a> Bicycles, including electric-assisted bicycles as defined in the Revised Code of Washington, are not motor vehicles. <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.04.169" target="_blank">Revised Code of Washington: Electric-Assisted Bicycle definition</a> </p> \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Speed </h3>\ \<p> How fast can the vehicle go on flat ground? </p>\ [[20 mph]] [[28 mph]] [[30 mph->Moped]] [[More than 30 mph]]

<h4> Wheel Configuration </h4>\ \<p> Are the wheels in tandem (inline like on a scooter), or not in tandem (like on a Segway)? </p>\ [[In tandem]] [[Not in tandem]]

<h4> Rider Position </h4>\ \<p> Does it have a floorboard that can be stood on while riding? </p>\ [[Yes->The rider stands]] [[No->The rider sits on a seat]]

<h3> Vehicle Speed </h3>\ \<p> How fast can the vehicle go on flat ground? </p>\ \<h4> [[Less than 20 mph->EPAMD]] [[20 mph or more->Non-conforming vehicle]] </h4>

<h3> Pedal Assist </h3>\ \<p> Does the motor provide power without the rider pedaling? </p>\ [[Yes, the motor provides power without the rider pedaling.->Class 2 e-bike]] [[No, the rider must pedal to get assistance from the motor.->Class 1 e-bike]]

<h3> Pedal Assist </h3>\ \<p> Does the motor provide power without the rider pedaling? </p> [[Yes, the motor provides power without a rider pedaling.->Moped]] [[No, the rider must pedal to get assistance from the motor.->Class 3 e-bike]]

<h4> Vehicle Speed </h4>\ \<p> How fast can the vehicle go on flat ground? </p>\ [[20 mph or less->Motorized Foot Scooter]] [[More than 20 mph->Non-conforming vehicle]]

<h4> Vehicle Speed </h4>\ \<p> How fast can the vehicle go on flat ground? </p>\ [[30 mph or less->Moped]] [[More than 30 mph]]

<h4> You can ride a motorized foot scooter on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>Yes, unless prohibited locally</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(7)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Yes, maximum speed 15 mph</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.20.500" target="_blank">RCW 46.20.500(5)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(3)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>No, unless authorized locally</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(3)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>No, unless authorized locally</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(9)</a></td> </tr> </table> \<h5>Local jurisdictions or state agencies may restrict, limit, or regulate motorized foot scooters. </h5> <button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h4> You can ride a moped on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(2)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(3)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(3)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(2)</a></td> </tr> </table> \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Speed </h3>\ \<p> How fast can the vehicle go on flat ground? </p>\ [[30 mph->Moped]] [[More than 30 mph]]

<h4> You can ride a Class 2 Electric Bicycle on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>Yes</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(7)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(7)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>Yes''*''</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(9)</a></td> </tr> </table> \<h6> ''*''Local jurisdictions can enact ordinances that prohibit riding bicycles on sidewalks in a business district. </h6>\ <button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h4> You can ride a Class 1 Electric Bicycle on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>Yes</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(7)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(7)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>Yes''*''</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(9)</a></td> </tr> </table>\ \<h5>Local jurisdictions or state agencies may restrict, limit, or regulate electric-assisted bicycles. ''*''Local jurisdictions can enact ordinances that prohibit riding bicycles on sidewalks in a business district. </h5>\ <button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h4> You can ride a Class 3 Electric Bicycle on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(8)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(8)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>Yes</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(3)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.61.710" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.710(9)</a></td> </tr> </table> \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h4> Where can I ride an electric motorcycle or motor-driven cycle? </h4>\ \<p> Electric motorcycles and motor-driven cycles have the same access and follow all the laws as gas-powered motorcycles and motor-driven cycles. </P>\ <button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h4> Where can I ride a power wheelchair? </h4>\ \<p> Power wheel chair operators are pedestrians. The have the same access and follow the same rules as all pedestrians. <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=46.04.400" target="_blank">RCW 46.04.400</a> </p>\ <button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Vehicle Use </h3>\ \<p> Is the vehicle designed as a mobility aid for individuals with mobility impairments, and operated by such an individual? </p>\ [[Yes->Power Wheelchair]] [[No->Non-conforming vehicle]] \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Vehicle Purpose </h3>\ \<p> Was the vehicle originally built for operation on a golf course? </p>\ \<h4> [[Yes->Golf Cart]] [[No->Non-conforming vehicle]]

<h4> You can drive a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>No</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Some Roads''*''</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.725" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.725(1)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.725" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.725(1)(a)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>No</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>No</td> <td></td> </tr> </table> \<h6> ''*''Neighborhood Electric Vehicle <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.725" target="_blank"> prohibitions:</a> -Roads with speed limits above 35 mph (45 mph on islands that are only accessible by ferry) -State highways with speed limits above 30 mph and listed <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=47.17" target="_blank"> here:</a> -Crossing a road with a speed limit of more than 35 mph (45 mph on islands) unless continuing on a road with a speed limit of 35 mph or less (45 mph or less on islands) -Crossing a state highway as listed above (unless authorized by local authorities) -Additional limitations may be established by local authorities </h6>\ <button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h4> You can drive a Medium Speed Electric Vehicle on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> \<table> <tr> <td>Shared Use Path: </td> <td>No</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Public Roads:</td> <td>Some Roads''*''</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.723" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.723(1)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Limited Access Highway:</td> <td>No</td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.723" target="_blank">RCW 46.61.723(1)(a)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sidewalk:</td> <td>No</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Non-motorized trail:</td> <td>No</td> <td></td> </tr> </table> \<h6> ''*''Medium Speed Electric Vehicle <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.723" target="_blank"> prohibitions:</a> -Roads with speed limits above 35 mph (45 mph on islands that are only accessible by ferry) -State highways with speed limits above 30 mph and listed <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=47.17" target="_blank"> here:</a> -Crossing a road with a speed limit of more than 35 mph (45 mph on islands) unless continuing on a road with a speed limit of 35 mph or less (45 mph or less on islands) -Crossing a state highway as listed above (unless authorized by local authorities) -Additional limitations may be established by local authorities </h6>\ <button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h4> You can drive a golf cart on: </h4>\ \<style> table { border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; } td, th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left; padding: 8px; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #dddddd; } \</style> \</head> \<body> <table> <tr> <td> Operation of a golf cart is limited to roads with a speed limit of 25 mph or less in areas designated by the local legislative authority as a golf cart zone. </td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.08.175" target="_blank">RCW 46.08.175(1)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> The local legislative authority may prohibit operation of a golf cart during hours of darkness. </td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.08.175" target="_blank">RCW 46.08.175(5)</a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> The local legislative authority may prohibit operation of a golf cart in a bicycle lane. </td> <td><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.08.175" target="_blank">RCW 46.08.175(7)</a></td> </tr> </table> \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Safety Standards for Motor Vehicles </h3>\ \<p> This vehicle must meet all <a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-V/part-571" target="_blank">federal motor vehicle safety standards</a>. If it does not meet those standards it is for [[off-road use only->Non-conforming vehicle]] and cannot be operated on public roads. </p>\ \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Safety Standards for Neighborhood Electric Vehicles </h3>\ \<p> Does the vehicle meet all the safety requirements listed in the <a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-V/part-571/subpart-B/section-571.500" target="_blank">Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards</a> for a low-speed vehicle? (See partial list below) </p>\ \[[Yes->Neighborhood Electric Vehicle]] [[No->Non-conforming vehicle]] \ \<h4> Required Equipment:</h4>\ * Headlights * Turn signals * Tail lights * Brake lights * Reflectors * Mirrors * Parking brake * Windshield * Seat belts \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>

<h3> Safety Standards for Medium Speed Electric Vehicles </h3>\ \<p> Does the vehicle meet all the safety requirements listed in the <a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-V/part-571/subpart-B/section-571.500" target="_blank">Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards</a> for a low-speed vehicle? (See partial list below) </p>\ \[[Yes->Medium Speed Electric Vehicle]] [[No->Non-conforming vehicle]] \ \<h4> Required Equipment:</h4>\ * Headlights * Turn signals * Tail lights * Brake lights * Reflectors * Mirrors * Parking brake * Windshield * Seat belts \<button class="button">[[Back to Start->Intro]]</button>