reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21200.5.

21200.5. Notwithstanding Section 21200, it is unlawful for any person to ride a bicycle upon a highway while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or any drug, or under the combined influence of an alcoholic beverage and any drug. Any person arrested for a violation of this section may request to have a chemical test made of the person’s blood, breath, or urine for the purpose of determining the alcoholic or drug content of that person’s blood pursuant to Section 23612, and, if so requested, the arresting officer shall have the test performed. A conviction of a violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not more than two hundred fifty dollars ($250). Violations of this section are subject to Section 13202.5.
(Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 22, Sec. 17. Effective May 26, 1999.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21201.

21201. (a) No person shall operate a bicycle on a roadway unless it is equipped with a brake that will enable the operator to make one braked wheel skid on dry, level, clean pavement.
(b) No person shall operate on the highway a bicycle equipped with handlebars so raised that the operator must elevate his or her hands above the level of his or her shoulders in order to grasp the normal steering grip area.
(c) No person shall operate upon a highway a bicycle that is of a size that prevents the operator from safely stopping the bicycle, supporting it in an upright position with at least one foot on the ground, and restarting it in a safe manner.
(d) A bicycle operated during darkness upon a highway, a sidewalk where bicycle operation is not prohibited by the local jurisdiction, or a bikeway, as defined in Section 890.4 of the Streets and Highways Code, shall be equipped with all of the following:
(1) A lamp emitting a white light that, while the bicycle is in motion, illuminates the highway, sidewalk, or bikeway in front of the bicyclist and is visible from a distance of 300 feet in front and from the sides of the bicycle.
(2) A red reflector or a solid or flashing red light with a built-in reflector on the rear that shall be visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful upper beams of headlamps on a motor vehicle.
(3) A white or yellow reflector on each pedal, shoe, or ankle visible from the front and rear of the bicycle from a distance of 200 feet.
(4) A white or yellow reflector on each side forward of the center of the bicycle, and a white or red reflector on each side to the rear of the center of the bicycle, except that bicycles that are equipped with reflectorized tires on the front and the rear need not be equipped with these side reflectors.
The reflectors and reflectorized tires shall be of a type meeting requirements established by the department.
(e) A lamp or lamp combination, emitting a white light, attached to the operator and visible from a distance of 300 feet in front and from the sides of the bicycle, may be used in lieu of the lamp required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (d).
(Amended by Stats. 2015, Ch. 549, Sec. 2. (AB 28) Effective January 1, 2016.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21201.3.

21201.3. (a) A bicycle or motorized bicycle used by a peace officer, as defined in Section 830.1 of, subdivision (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g), or (i) of Section 830.2 of, subdivision (b) or (d) of Section 830.31 of, subdivision (a) or (b) of Section 830.32 of, Section 830.33 of, subdivision (a) of Section 830.36 of, subdivision (a) of Section 830.4 of, or Section 830.6 of, the Penal Code, in the performance of the peace officer’s duties, may display a steady or flashing blue warning light that is visible from the front, sides, or rear of the bicycle or motorized bicycle.
(b) No person shall display a steady or flashing blue warning light on a bicycle or motorized bicycle except as authorized under subdivision (a).
(Added by Stats. 1998, Ch. 877, Sec. 65. Effective January 1, 1999.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21201.5.

21201.5. (a) No person shall sell, or offer for sale, a reflex reflector or reflectorized tire of a type required on a bicycle unless it meets requirements established by the department. If there exists a federal Consumer Product Safety Commission regulation applicable to bicycle reflectors, the provisions of that regulation shall prevail over provisions of this code or requirements established by the department pursuant to this code relative to bicycle reflectors.
(b) No person shall sell, or offer for sale, a new bicycle that is not equipped with a red reflector on the rear, a white or yellow reflector on each pedal visible from the front and rear of the bicycle, a white or yellow reflector on each side forward of the center of the bicycle, and a white or red reflector on each side to the rear of the center of the bicycle, except that bicycles which are equipped with reflectorized tires on the front and rear need not be equipped with these side reflectors.
(c) Area reflectorizing material meeting the requirements of Section 25500 may be used on a bicycle.
(Amended by Stats. 1980, Ch. 399, Sec. 2. Effective July 11, 1980.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21202.

21202. (a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
(1) When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
(2) When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
(3) When reasonably necessary to avoid conditions (including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards, or substandard width lanes) that make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge, subject to the provisions of Section 21656. For purposes of this section, a “substandard width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(4) When approaching a place where a right turn is authorized.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway of a highway, which highway carries traffic in one direction only and has two or more marked traffic lanes, may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of that roadway as practicable.
(Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 674, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1997.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21203.

21203. No person riding upon any motorcycle, motorized bicycle, bicycle, coaster, roller skates, sled, or toy vehicle shall attach the same or himself to any streetcar or vehicle on the roadway.
(Amended by Stats. 1981, Ch. 813, Sec. 11.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21204.

21204. (a)  A person operating a bicycle upon a highway shall not ride other than upon or astride a permanent and regular seat attached thereto, unless the bicycle was designed by the manufacturer to be ridden without a seat.
(b)  An operator shall not allow a person riding as a passenger, and a person shall not ride as a passenger, on a bicycle upon a highway other than upon or astride a separate seat attached thereto. If the passenger is four years of age or younger, or weighs 40 pounds or less, the seat shall have adequate provision for retaining the passenger in place and for protecting the passenger from the moving parts of the bicycle.
(Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 594, Sec. 1. (SB 527) Effective January 1, 2010.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21205.

21205. No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle or article which prevents the operator from keeping at least one hand upon the handlebars.
(Added by Stats. 1963, Ch. 479.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21206.

21206. This chapter does not prevent local authorities, by ordinance, from regulating the registration of bicycles and the parking and operation of bicycles on pedestrian or bicycle facilities, provided such regulation is not in conflict with the provisions of this code.
(Amended by Stats. 1976, Ch. 751.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21207.

21207. (a) This chapter does not prohibit local authorities from establishing, by ordinance or resolution, bicycle lanes separated from any vehicular lanes upon highways, other than state highways as defined in Section 24 of the Streets and Highways Code and county highways established pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 1720) of Chapter 9 of Division 2 of the Streets and Highways Code.
(b) Bicycle lanes established pursuant to this section shall be constructed in compliance with Section 891 of the Streets and Highways Code.
(Amended by Stats. 1993, Ch. 517, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1994.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21207.5.

21207.5. (a) Notwithstanding Sections 21207 and 23127 of this code, or any other law, a motorized bicycle shall not be operated on a bicycle path or trail, bikeway, bicycle lane established pursuant to Section 21207, equestrian trail, or hiking or recreational trail, unless it is within or adjacent to a roadway or unless the local authority or the governing body of a public agency having jurisdiction over the path or trail permits, by ordinance, that operation.
(b) The local authority or governing body of a public agency having jurisdiction over an equestrian trail, or hiking or recreational trail, may prohibit, by ordinance, the operation of an electric bicycle or any class of electric bicycle on that trail.
(c) The Department of Parks and Recreation may prohibit the operation of an electric bicycle or any class of electric bicycle on any bicycle path or trail within the department’s jurisdiction.
(Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 343, Sec. 1. (AB 1909) Effective January 1, 2023.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21208.

21208. (a) Whenever a bicycle lane has been established on a roadway pursuant to Section 21207, any person operating a bicycle upon the roadway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time shall ride within the bicycle lane, except that the person may move out of the lane under any of the following situations:
(1) When overtaking and passing another bicycle, vehicle, or pedestrian within the lane or about to enter the lane if the overtaking and passing cannot be done safely within the lane.
(2) When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
(3) When reasonably necessary to leave the bicycle lane to avoid debris or other hazardous conditions.
(4) When approaching a place where a right turn is authorized.
(b) No person operating a bicycle shall leave a bicycle lane until the movement can be made with reasonable safety and then only after giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided in Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 22100) in the event that any vehicle may be affected by the movement.
(Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 674, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 1997.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21209.

21209. (a) No person shall drive a motor vehicle in a bicycle lane established on a roadway pursuant to Section 21207 except as follows:
(1) To park where parking is permitted.
(2) To enter or leave the roadway.
(3) To prepare for a turn within a distance of 200 feet from the intersection.
(b) This section does not prohibit the use of a motorized bicycle in a bicycle lane, pursuant to Section 21207.5, at a speed no greater than is reasonable or prudent, having due regard for visibility, traffic conditions, and the condition of the roadway surface of the bicycle lane, and in a manner which does not endanger the safety of bicyclists.
(Amended by Stats. 1988, Ch. 262, Sec. 1.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21210.

21210. No person shall leave a bicycle lying on its side on any sidewalk, or shall park a bicycle on a sidewalk in any other position, so that there is not an adequate path for pedestrian traffic. Local authorities may, by ordinance or resolution, prohibit bicycle parking in designated areas of the public highway, provided that appropriate signs are erected.
(Added by Stats. 1976, Ch. 751.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21211.

21211. (a) No person may stop, stand, sit, or loiter upon any class I bikeway, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 890.4 of the Streets and Highways Code, or any other public or private bicycle path or trail, if the stopping, standing, sitting, or loitering impedes or blocks the normal and reasonable movement of any bicyclist.
(b) No person may place or park any bicycle, vehicle, or any other object upon any bikeway or bicycle path or trail, as specified in subdivision (a), which impedes or blocks the normal and reasonable movement of any bicyclist unless the placement or parking is necessary for safe operation or is otherwise in compliance with the law.
(c) This section does not apply to drivers or owners of utility or public utility vehicles, as provided in Section 22512.
(d) This section does not apply to owners or drivers of vehicles who make brief stops while engaged in the delivery of newspapers to customers along the person’s route.
(e) This section does not apply to the driver or owner of a rubbish or garbage truck while actually engaged in the collection of rubbish or garbage within a business or residence district if the front turn signal lamps at each side of the vehicle are being flashed simultaneously and the rear turn signal lamps at each side of the vehicle are being flashed simultaneously.
(f) This section does not apply to the driver or owner of a tow vehicle while actually engaged in the towing of a vehicle if the front turn signal lamps at each side of the vehicle are being flashed simultaneously and the rear turn signal lamps at each side of the vehicle are being flashed simultaneously.
(Amended by Stats. 2001, Ch. 127, Sec. 7. Effective July 30, 2001.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21213.

21213. (a) A person under 16 years of age shall not operate a class 3 electric bicycle.
(b) A person shall not operate a class 3 electric bicycle, or ride upon a class 3 electric bicycle as a passenger, upon a street, bikeway, as defined in Section 890.4 of the Streets and Highways Code, or any other public bicycle path or trail, unless that person is wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet that meets the standards of either the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), or standards subsequently established by those entities. This helmet requirement also applies to a person who rides upon a class 3 electric bicycle while in a restraining seat that is attached to the bicycle or in a trailer towed by the bicycle.
(Added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 568, Sec. 6. (AB 1096) Effective January 1, 2016.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 21214.

21214. (a) On or before January 1, 2026, the Mineta Transportation Institute at San Jose State University, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, shall conduct a study on electric bicycles to inform efforts to improve the safety of all users of the transportation system, and submit a report of the findings from the study to the Legislature. The study shall examine, identify, and analyze available information, including, but not be limited to, all of the following topics:
(1) Data on injuries, crashes, emergency room visits, and deaths related to bicycles and electric bicycles.
(2) Factors and circumstances that are correlated with the crashes of bicycles and electric bicycles.
(3) Best practices for policy to promote safe use of electric bicycles.
(4) Laws in other state vehicle codes pertaining to electric bicycles.
(5) Data on the safety impacts from electric bicycle components and accessories including, but not limited to, headlights, speedometers, brakes, tires, bells, and reflectors.
(6) Data on the safety performance of electric bicycle batteries.
(7) Data on the manufacturing of electric bicycles, including, but not limited to, the market of electric bicycles, manufacturer information, sales patterns, and the number of electric bicycles on California roads, including the usage by city and the reasons behind the usage.
(8) Review of policies that other countries with high electric bicycle ridership use to promote the safe use of electric bicycles, including, but not limited to, cyclist and driver training, street infrastructure policy, and insurance or licensing requirements.
(9) Recommendations for state policy to support expanded use of electric bicycles that protects the safety of riders and other road users, including, but not limited to, recommendations on whether there are needed revisions to the Vehicle Code, and improved data collection on electric bicycles.
(b) (1) A report to be submitted pursuant to subdivision (a) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.
(2) Pursuant to Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, this section is repealed on January 1, 2030.
(Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 869, Sec. 2. (SB 381) Effective January 1, 2024. Repealed as of January 1, 2030 by its own provisions.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4.5 - Operation of Pedicabs › Section 21215.

21215. (a) A pedicab defined in subdivision (c) of Section 467.5 shall operate subject to all of the following requirements:
(1) The pedicab shall have a seating capacity for not more than 15 passengers.
(2) The pedicab shall be authorized by local ordinance or resolution to operate within the applicable local jurisdiction.
(3) The operator of the pedicab shall be at least 21 years of age, with a valid California driver’s license.
(4) The pedicab shall be equipped with seatbelts for all passengers, seat backs, brakes, reflectors, headlights, and grab rails. The pedicab shall be inspected annually for compliance with the requirements of this paragraph by an entity designated by the local jurisdiction that authorized the pedicab to operate. The entity may charge a reasonable fee to cover the costs of the inspection. A pedicab that does not meet these requirements shall meet these requirements by January 1, 2017, in order to continue operation.
(5) The operator of the pedicab shall at all times be able to establish financial responsibility in a minimum amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000) general liability insurance coverage and an additional five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) general umbrella insurance that covers the pedicab. The local jurisdiction that authorized the pedicab to operate may require additional proof of financial responsibility.
(6) A pedicab shall not operate on any highway under the jurisdiction of the local authority unless authorized by resolution or ordinance. A pedicab shall not operate on any freeway and shall not operate on any highway with a posted speed limit in excess of 30 miles per hour, except to cross the highway at an intersection.
(7) The operator of the pedicab shall annually report to the Department of the California Highway Patrol, commencing on January 1, 2016, any accidents caused or experienced by the pedicabs.
(8) The pedicab shall not load or unload passengers on roadways or in the middle of highways.
(9) Pedicabs shall be operated as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except when necessary to overtake another vehicle, to avoid a stationary object, or when preparing to make a left turn.
(b) This article only applies to pedicabs defined by subdivision (c) of Section 467.5, and does not apply to pedicabs defined in subdivision (a) or (b) of Section 467.5.
(Added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 496, Sec. 2. (SB 530) Effective January 1, 2016.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4.5 - Operation of Pedicabs › Section 21215.2.

21215.2. (a) If alcoholic beverages are consumed on board the pedicab, a pedicab defined in subdivision (c) of Section 467.5 shall additionally operate subject to all of the following requirements:
(1) The consumption of alcoholic beverages onboard the pedicab shall be authorized by local ordinance or resolution.
(2) An onboard safety monitor who is 21 years of age or older shall be present whenever alcohol is being consumed by passengers during the operation of the pedicab. The onboard safety monitor shall not be under the influence of any alcoholic beverage and shall be considered as driving the pedicab for purposes of Article 2 (commencing with Section 23152) of Chapter 12 of Division 11 during the operation of the pedicab.
(3) Both the operator and safety monitor shall have completed either the Licensee Education on Alcohol and Drugs (LEAD) program implemented by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control or a training course utilizing the curriculum components recommended by the Responsible Beverage Service Advisory Board established by the Director of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
(4) Alcoholic beverages shall not be provided by the operator or onboard safety monitor or any employee or agent of the operator or onboard safety monitor of the pedicab. Alcoholic beverages may only be supplied by the passengers of the pedicab. All alcoholic beverages supplied by passengers of the pedicab shall be in enclosed, sealed, and unopened containers that have been labeled pursuant to Chapter 13 (commencing with Section 25170) of Division 9 of the Business and Professions Code prior to their consumption on board the pedicab.
(5) Alcoholic beverages may be consumed by a passenger of the pedicab only while the passenger is physically on board and within the pedicab.
(6) All passengers shall be 21 years of age or older if alcohol is consumed during the operation of the pedicab.
(7) For purposes of this subdivision, passengers who are pedaling the device are not operators.
(b) A license or permit from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control shall not be required of the operator or onboard safety monitor, so long as neither they, nor their employees or agents sell, serve, or furnish any alcoholic beverage to any passenger.
(c) For purposes of this section, “alcoholic beverage” has the same meaning as defined in Section 23004 of the Business and Professions Code.
(Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 280, Sec. 1. (SB 543) Effective January 1, 2020.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 4.5 - Operation of Pedicabs › Section 21215.5.

21215.5. This article does not preclude a local authority from imposing more stringent operating or equipment requirements on a pedicab subject to this article.
(Added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 496, Sec. 2. (SB 530) Effective January 1, 2016.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21220.

21220. (a) The Legislature finds and declares both of the following:
(1) This state has severe traffic congestion and air pollution problems, particularly in its cities, and finding ways to reduce these problems is of paramount importance.
(2) Motorized scooters that meet the definition of Section 407.5 produce no emissions and, therefore, do not contribute to increased air pollution or increase traffic congestion.
(b) It is the intent of the Legislature in adding this article to promote the use of alternative low-emission or no-emission transportation.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21220.5.

21220.5. For the purposes of this article, a motorized scooter is defined in Section 407.5.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21221.

21221. Every person operating a motorized scooter upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this division, including, but not limited to, provisions concerning driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs, and by Division 10 (commencing with Section 20000), Division 17 (commencing with Section 40000.1), and Division 18 (commencing with Section 42000), except those provisions which, by their very nature, can have no application.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21221.5.

21221.5. Notwithstanding Section 21221, it is unlawful for any person to operate a motorized scooter upon a highway while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or any drug, or under the combined influence of an alcoholic beverage and any drug. Any person arrested for a violation of this section may request to have a chemical test made of the person’s blood or breath for the purpose of determining the alcoholic or drug content of that person’s blood pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 23612, and, if so requested, the arresting officer shall have the test performed. A conviction of a violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not more than two hundred fifty dollars ($250).
(Amended by Stats. 2000, Ch. 287, Sec. 25. Effective January 1, 2001.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21223.

21223. (a) Every motorized scooter operated upon any highway during darkness shall be equipped with the following:
(1) Except as provided in subdivision (b), a lamp emitting a white light which, while the motorized scooter is in motion, illuminates the highway in front of the operator and is visible from a distance of 300 feet in front and from the sides of the motorized scooter.
(2) Except as provided in subdivision (c), a red reflector on the rear that is visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful upper beams of headlamps on a motor vehicle.
(3) A white or yellow reflector on each side visible from the front and rear of the motorized scooter from a distance of 200 feet.
(b) A lamp or lamp combination, emitting a white light, attached to the operator and visible from a distance of 300 feet in front and from the sides of the motorized scooter, may be used in lieu of the lamp required by paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).
(c) A red reflector, or reflectorized material meeting the requirements of Section 25500, attached to the operator and visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful upper beams of headlamps on a motor vehicle, may be used in lieu of the reflector required by paragraph (2) of subdivision (a).
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21224.

21224. (a) A person operating a motorized scooter is not subject to the provisions of this code relating to financial responsibility, registration, and license plate requirements, and, for those purposes, a motorized scooter is not a motor vehicle.
(b) A motorized scooter is exempt from the equipment requirements in Division 12 (commencing with Section 24000), except for Sections 24003 and 27400, Article 4 (commencing with Section 27450) of Chapter 5 of Division 12, and Section 27602.
(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), any motorized scooter may be equipped with equipment authorized by Division 12 (commencing with Section 24000).
(d) Any motorized scooter equipped with lighting equipment that is authorized by Division 12 (commencing with Section 24000) shall meet the lighting requirements in Article 1 (commencing with Section 24250) of Chapter 2 of Division 12 for that equipment.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21225.

21225. This article does not prevent a local authority, by ordinance, from regulating the registration of motorized scooters and the parking and operation of motorized scooters on pedestrian or bicycle facilities and local streets and highways, if that regulation is not in conflict with this code.
(Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 755, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2005.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21226.

21226. (a) A person shall not sell or offer for sale a motorized scooter that produces a maximum noise level exceeding 80 dbA at a distance of 50 feet from the centerline of travel when tested in accordance with Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Recommended Practice J331 JAN00.
(b) A motorized scooter, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 407.5, shall at all times be equipped with a muffler meeting the requirements of this section, in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise, and a muffler or exhaust system shall not be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device.
(c) A motorized scooter, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 407.5, operated off the highways shall at all times be equipped with a muffler meeting the requirements of this section, in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise, and a muffler or exhaust system shall not be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device.
(d) A person shall not modify the exhaust system of a motorized scooter in a manner that will amplify or increase the noise level emitted by the motor of the scooter so that it is not in compliance with this section or exceeds the noise level limit established by subdivision (a). A person shall not operate a motorized scooter with an exhaust system so modified.
(Added by Stats. 2004, Ch. 755, Sec. 7. Effective January 1, 2005.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21227.

21227. (a) A motorized scooter shall comply with one of the following:
(1) Operate in a manner so that the electric motor is disengaged or ceases to function when the brakes are applied.
(2) Operate in a manner so that the motor is engaged through a switch or mechanism that, when released, will cause the electric motor to disengage or cease to function.
(b) It is unlawful for a person to operate a motorized scooter that does not meet one of the requirements of subdivision (a).
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21228.

21228. Any person operating a motorized scooter upon a highway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or right edge of the roadway, except under the following situations:
(a) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
(b) When preparing for a left turn, the operator shall stop and dismount as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or right edge of the roadway and complete the turn by crossing the roadway on foot, subject to the restrictions placed on pedestrians in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 21950).
(c) (1) When reasonably necessary to avoid conditions, including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards, or substandard width lanes, which make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or right edge of the roadway, subject to Section 21656.
(2) For the purposes of paragraph (1), a “substandard width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a motorized scooter and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(d) Any person operating a motorized scooter upon a highway that carries traffic in one direction only and has two or more marked traffic lanes may operate the motorized scooter as near the left-hand curb or left edge of that roadway as practicable.
However, when preparing for a right turn, the operator shall stop and dismount as close as practicable to the left-hand curb or left edge of the highway and complete the turn by crossing the roadway on foot, subject to the restrictions placed on pedestrians in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 21950).
(Amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 62, Sec. 306. Effective January 1, 2004.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21229.

21229. (a) Whenever a class II bicycle lane has been established on a roadway, any person operating a motorized scooter upon the roadway shall ride within the bicycle lane, except that the person may move out of the lane under any of the following situations:
(1) When overtaking and passing another vehicle or pedestrian within the lane or when about to enter the lane if the overtaking and passing cannot be done safely within the lane.
(2) When preparing for a left turn, the operator shall stop and dismount as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or right edge of the roadway and complete the turn by crossing the roadway on foot, subject to the restrictions placed on pedestrians in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 21950).
(3) When reasonably necessary to leave the bicycle lane to avoid debris or other hazardous conditions.
(4) When approaching a place where a right turn is authorized.
(b) No person operating a motorized scooter shall leave a bicycle lane until the movement can be made with reasonable safety and then only after giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided in Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 22100) in the event that any vehicle may be affected by the movement.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21230.

21230. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a motorized scooter may be operated on a bicycle path or trail or bikeway, unless the local authority or the governing body of a local agency having jurisdiction over that path, trail, or bikeway prohibits that operation by ordinance.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5 - Operation of Motorized Scooters › Section 21235.

21235. The operator of a motorized scooter shall not do any of the following:
(a) Operate a motorized scooter unless it is equipped with a brake that will enable the operator to make a braked wheel skid on dry, level, clean pavement.
(b) Operate a motorized scooter on a highway with a speed limit in excess of 25 miles per hour unless the motorized scooter is operated within a Class II or Class IV bikeway, except that a local authority may, by ordinance or resolution, authorize the operation of a motorized scooter outside of a Class II or Class IV bikeway on a highway with a speed limit of up to 35 miles per hour. The 15 mile per hour maximum speed limit for the operation of a motorized scooter specified in Section 22411 applies to the operation of a motorized scooter on all highways, including bikeways, regardless of a higher speed limit applicable to the highway.
(c) Operate a motorized scooter without wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet that meets the standards described in Section 21212, if the operator is under 18 years of age.
(d) Operate a motorized scooter without a valid driver’s license or instruction permit.
(e) Operate a motorized scooter with any passengers in addition to the operator.
(f) Operate a motorized scooter carrying any package, bundle, or article that prevents the operator from keeping at least one hand upon the handlebars.
(g) Operate a motorized scooter upon a sidewalk, except as may be necessary to enter or leave adjacent property.
(h) Operate a motorized scooter on the highway with the handlebars raised so that the operator must elevate his or her hands above the level of his or her shoulders in order to grasp the normal steering grip area.
(i) Leave a motorized scooter lying on its side on any sidewalk, or park a motorized scooter on a sidewalk in any other position, so that there is not an adequate path for pedestrian traffic.
(j) Attach the motorized scooter or himself or herself while on the roadway, by any means, to any other vehicle on the roadway.
(Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 552, Sec. 1. (AB 2989) Effective January 1, 2019.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5.5 - Operation of Low-Speed Vehicles › Section 21250.

21250. For the purposes of this article, a low-speed vehicle means a vehicle as defined in Section 385.5. A “low-speed vehicle” is also known as a “neighborhood electric vehicle.”
(Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 422, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 2005.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5.5 - Operation of Low-Speed Vehicles › Section 21251.

21251. Except as provided in Chapter 8 (commencing with Section 1965) of Division 2.5 of the Streets and Highways Code, and Sections 4023, 21115, and 21115.1, a low-speed vehicle is subject to all the provisions applicable to a motor vehicle, and the driver of a low-speed vehicle is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a motor vehicle or other vehicle, when applicable, by this code or another code, with the exception of those provisions that, by their very nature, can have no application.
(Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 564, Sec. 5. (SB 1151) Effective January 1, 2019.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5.5 - Operation of Low-Speed Vehicles › Section 21252.

21252. A vehicle dealer, selling a low-speed vehicle, shall provide to the buyer a disclosure statement regarding the operation of the vehicle that is in compliance with existing provisions of the California Code of Regulations.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 140, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5.5 - Operation of Low-Speed Vehicles › Section 21253.

21253. A low-speed vehicle operated or parked on the roadway shall at all times meet federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards established for low-speed vehicles in Section 571.500 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 140, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5.5 - Operation of Low-Speed Vehicles › Section 21254.

21254. A motor vehicle that was originally designated as a low-speed vehicle and that has been modified or altered to exceed 25 miles per hour shall not qualify for the relaxed federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards established for low-speed vehicles and instead shall meet all federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for a passenger vehicle.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 140, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5.5 - Operation of Low-Speed Vehicles › Section 21260.

21260. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), or in an area where a neighborhood electric vehicle transportation plan has been adopted pursuant to Chapter 8 (commencing with Section 1965) of Division 2.5 of the Streets and Highways Code, the operator of a low-speed vehicle shall not operate the vehicle on any roadway with a speed limit in excess of 35 miles per hour.
(b) (1) The operator of a low-speed vehicle may cross a roadway with a speed limit in excess of 35 miles per hour if the crossing begins and ends on a roadway with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less and occurs at an intersection of approximately 90 degrees.
(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the operator of a low-speed vehicle shall not traverse an uncontrolled intersection with any state highway unless that intersection has been approved and authorized by the agency having primary traffic enforcement responsibilities for that crossing by a low-speed vehicle.
(Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 564, Sec. 6. (SB 1151) Effective January 1, 2019.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 5.5 - Operation of Low-Speed Vehicles › Section 21266.

21266. (a) Notwithstanding Section 21260, local authorities, by ordinance or resolution, may restrict or prohibit the use of low-speed vehicles.
(b) Notwithstanding Section 21260, a local law enforcement agency with primary traffic enforcement responsibilities or the Department of the California Highway Patrol may prohibit the operation of a low-speed vehicle on any roadway under that agency’s or department’s jurisdiction when the agency or the department deems the prohibition to be in the best interest of public safety. Any such prohibition shall become effective when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are erected upon the roadway.
(Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 140, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2000.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 6 - Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices › Section 21280.

21280. (a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
(1) This state has severe traffic congestion and air pollution problems, particularly in its cities, and finding ways to reduce these problems is of paramount importance.
(2) Reducing the millions of single passenger automobile trips of five miles or less that Californians take each year will significantly reduce the pollution caused by fuel emissions and aggravated by automobile congestion.
(3) Electric personal assistive mobility devices that meet the definition in Section 313 operate solely on electricity and employ advances in technology to safely integrate the user in pedestrian transportation.
(4) Electric personal assistive mobility devices enable California businesses, public officials, and individuals to travel farther and carry more without the use of traditional vehicles, thereby promoting gains in productivity, minimizing environmental impacts, and facilitating better use of public ways.
(b) The Legislature is adding this article as part of its program to promote the use of no-emission transportation.
(Amended by Stats. 2007, Ch. 106, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2008.)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 6 - Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices › Section 21280.5.

21280.5. For purposes of this article, an electric personal assistive mobility device is defined in Section 313.
(Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 979, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2003. Section operative March 1, 2003, pursuant to Section 21283 (later repealed).)
2023 California Code › Vehicle Code - VEH › DIVISION 11 - RULES OF THE ROAD › CHAPTER 1 - Obedience to and Effect of Traffic Laws › ARTICLE 6 - Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices › Section 21281.

21281. Every electric personal assistive mobility device, or EPAMD, shall be equipped with the following safety mechanisms:
(a) Front, rear, and side reflectors.
(b) A system that enables the operator to bring the device to a controlled stop.
(c) If the EPAMD is operated between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise, a lamp emitting a white light that, while the EPAMD is in motion, illuminates the area in front of the operator and is visible from a distance of 300 feet in front of the EPAMD.
(d) A sound emitting device that can be activated from time to time by the operator, as appropriate, to alert nearby persons.
(Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 979, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2003. Section operative March 1, 2003, pursuant to Section 21283 (later repealed).)