BOULDER CITY – Motorized devices are growing in popularity, especially with teens, but many parents don't know the legalities or the dangers. If you're thinking about buying a motorized vehicle for a minor, research laws and safety requirements to ensure safe vehicles for your children. Boulder City Police and Fire Departments have teamed up in an effort to educate residents, creating a webpage to provide information about “Wheels and Motors and Nevada Law” at bcnv.org/BikeSafety.
Boulder City Police Officers often see children riding motorized devices at the same speed as vehicle traffic – as much as 30 m.p.h. – or not looking both ways as they cross streets, or not stopping at stop signs. Sadly, many children across the U.S. are injured or killed annually in accidents with cars and trucks. “Our officers never want to knock on a parent’s door to tell them their child was in a critical accident,” said Police Chief Tim Shea. “Parents tell us that they can’t tell the difference between what’s legal and what requires a license. They also are not aware of legal ramifications of letting kids use some motor-propelled items.”
More than 230,000 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries while skateboarding, using scooters or hoverboards in the U.S. in 2022. The “Wheels and Motors and Nevada Law” campaign web page breaks down specific motorized items and explains how each is treated under various safety commissions as well as under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS). Some items have no age requirement, but can travel between five and 12 m.p.h. Riders/operators should always wear proper safety gear.
The CDC recommends any person, any age, on any small, lightweight moving device, self-propelled or motorized, wear a helmet. Properly fit helmets can reduce the risk of head injury in a crash by 85%. “Wearing a helmet can prevent traumatic brain injuries, concussions, or even death,” said Acting Fire Chief Greg Chesser. “Our paramedics want to avoid seeing anyone get hurt. We are thankful that San Diego Gas and Electric for their donation of $2,000 for a bike helmet campaign which will kick off later this Spring.”
There are potential criminal charges if minors are caught operating either a moped or a motorcycle. If an adult, such as a parent or guardian, permits a child under 18 to operate a moped or motorcycle without a license, it is a violation of NRS 483.580. This misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $1000 and/or jail for up to six months.
The City of Boulder City wants to partner with local parents to help keep their children safe. For links or more information, visit www.bcnv.org/BikeSafety.
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