Hurlburt sets rules for motorized scooters Published May 4, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Parrish Hollingsworth 1st SOSFS HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Recently, the use of motorized scooters on base has increased. As of now, Hurlburt Field doesn't have specific rules or regulations for the motorized scooter. Therefore, the 1st Special Operations Security Forces Squadron will enforce the State of Florida rules and regulations. Many of the smaller scooters most popular with children and teens resemble a skateboard with handles to which a small gasoline or electric engine has been added. Regardless of the type of scooter being used, according to Florida law 322.01(26), F.S., all motorized scooters are considered motor vehicles. In addition, because scooters don't have license plates, lights or registrations, the law doesn't allow them on any public roads - even if the operator has a driver's license as required for all motor vehicle operators under Florida law 322.03, F.S. Many parents and children aren't aware it's illegal to ride scooters on sidewalks, bike paths or roadways, and if caught doing so, can be subject to fines. At this time, motorized scooters can only be ridden on private property. This severely limits usage for most people. Parents who purchase motorized scooters for their children should be aware of certain potential safety hazards as well. Most children who receive motorized scooters as gifts are too young to obtain a license to operate a motor vehicle, and are therefore unfamiliar with traffic laws and may be oblivious to traffic hazards and problems that drivers of larger vehicles face, such as blind spots, slick roads and long stopping distances. As a safety precaution and because it violates current state law, motorized scooters have no place on the roadways of our base or state. Parents who choose to purchase motorized scooters for their children should educate them on vehicle safety and ensure they comply with Florida state laws. Along the same lines, the use of any off-road vehicle such as an all-terrain vehicle or go-cart, is prohibited on base, including in all of the housing areas. Military personnel are responsible for their dependents and will be held accountable if their family members are discovered operating any prohibited item on base. For more information about motorized scooters and other safety topics, visit the Florida Highway Patrol's Web site at http://www.fhp.state.fl.us/ or the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles' Web site at http://www.hsmv.state.fl.us, or call 1st SOSFS Police Services at 884-6185.