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Hoverboards have been all the rage in recent years, but are they actually legal to use in New York City? We did some digging to find out.
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Introduction
Since their inception, hoverboards have been a popular mode of transportation – especially among young people. In recent years, however, there has been a growing concern over the safety of these devices, and as a result, many cities and states have begun to regulate their use.
So, are hoverboards legal in NYC? The answer is yes and no. Hoverboards are not illegal to own or operate in NYC, but there are some restrictions in place regarding where they can be used. For example, hoverboards are not allowed on sidewalks or in parks. Additionally, riders must be at least 16 years old and must wear a helmet when riding in areas where motorized vehicles are permitted.
What are Hoverboards?
Hoverboards are self-balancing, battery-powered scooters that have become increasingly popular in recent years. While they are great for getting around, there are some places where they are not allowed. One of those places is New York City.
Why are Hoverboards Illegal in NYC?
Hoverboards are banned in New York City because they fall under the definition of a motorized scooter. Motorized scooters are defined as any “power-driven vehicle not having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, designed to travel on not more than three wheels, and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground” in the city’s administrative code.
While hoverboards do not have a seat, they do have two wheels and can reach speeds of up to 10 mph. As such, they are considered illegal motorized scooters and cannot be used on city streets or sidewalks.
People caught riding hoverboards in NYC can be fined up to $500.
The Dangers of Hoverboards
Hoverboards have been in the news a lot lately, and not always for the right reasons. These self-balancing scooters have been linked to injuries and fires, and some cities have even banned them altogether. So what’s the story with hoverboards in New York City?
Unfortunately, hoverboards are not legal to ride on NYC sidewalks. According to the NYC Department of Transportation, “hoverboards are considered motorized vehicles because they have motors that propel them forward.” This means that they are subject to the same regulations as cars and motorcycles, which are not allowed on sidewalks.
If you’re caught riding a hoverboard on a NYC sidewalk, you could be fined up to $500. And if you’re involved in an accident while riding one, you could be held liable for damages. So it’s definitely not worth it to take your chances with a hoverboard in New York City!
How to Ride a Hoverboard Safely
Hoverboards, also known as self-balancing scooters, have become increasingly popular in recent years. Though they are a fun and convenient way to get around, there are some dangers associated with them. In order to ride a hoverboard safely, it is important to follow some basic safety tips.
First, always wear protective gear when riding a hoverboard. This includes a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads. Second, make sure that the area you are riding in is free of obstacles that could cause you to fall off of your board. Third, avoid riding in traffic or in areas with a lot of pedestrian traffic. Fourth, be aware of your surroundings at all times and be prepared to stop or swerve if necessary. Finally, never ride a hoverboard under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Following these simple tips will help you enjoy your hoverboard while staying safe.
How to Avoid Getting in Trouble with the Law
While hoverboards are not illegal in NYC, there are some restrictions on where and how they can be used. For example, you can’t ride a hoverboard on the sidewalk or in a park. If you do, you could be fined. Hoverboards are also not allowed on subways or buses.
How to Choose the Right Hoverboard
With so many choices on the market, it can be hard to know how to choose the right hoverboard. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision:
-Hoverboards come in a variety of sizes, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for your height and weight.
-Most hoverboards have a maximum speed of around 10 mph, but some models can go up to 15 mph. If you plan on using your hoverboard for commuting, make sure to choose a model with a higher top speed.
-Hoverboards typically have a range of around 10-15 miles, but some models can go up to 20 miles on a single charge. If you plan on using your hoverboard for long distance travel, make sure to choose a model with a longer range.
-Hoverboards typically come with either 4” or 6” wheels. If you plan on using your hoverboard off-road, make sure to choose a model with larger wheels.
Keep these factors in mind when choosing your hoverboard and you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs!
Tips for Staying Safe on a Hoverboard
Hoverboards have become increasingly popular in recent years, but there are still many people who are unsure about their safety. In New York City, hoverboards are actually illegal to ride on the streets or sidewalks. However, this does not mean that you can never enjoy the fun of riding a hoverboard. There are still plenty of places where you can safely ride your hoverboard, as long as you take the necessary precautions.
Here are some tips for staying safe on a hoverboard:
-Wear proper safety gear. This includes a helmet, elbow and knee pads, and wrist guards.
-Do not ride in traffic. Stick to areas where there are no vehicles or pedestrians.
-Be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for obstacles like potholes and cracks in the sidewalk.
-Start slow. Don’t try to go too fast right away. Build up your speed gradually.
-Don’t ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Conclusion
Based on the above information, it appears that hoverboards are not currently illegal to use in NYC. However, given the potential dangers associated with their use, it is strongly advised that you consult with your local authorities before using one in a public area.
Resources
Looking for more information on hoverboards? Check out some of these resources:
-The New York Times has a good article on the legal situation surrounding hoverboards in NYC: http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/17/nyregion/hoverboards-illegal-in-new-york-city.html
-Hoverboarder.com has a list of states and cities where hoverboards are legal: http://hoverboarder.com/are-hoverboards-legal/
-If you want to know more about the history of hoverboards, CNN has a great overview: http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/11/tech/innovation/hoverboard-history/
