House Research Department
Updated: October 2008
Low-Power Vehicles
Page 15
Segways
Classification13
Segways were first introduced in 2001. They are referred to in
law as "electric personal assistive mobility devices." They have
two wheels that are parallel rather than tandem and handlebars
that a standing operator uses for steering. They are designed to be
self-balancing, which contrasts with the other two-wheeled low-
speed vehicles that require balancing by the vehicle operator. The
latest Segways have a top speed of 12.5 miles per hour and a
range of about 24 miles. To be considered an electric personal
assistive mobility device under Minnesota law, a device must
have two nontandem wheels, be able to transport only one person,
use an electric motor, and have a maximum speed of 15 miles per
Regulations
Operators of a Segway (or other electric personal assistive mobility device) have the same rights
They do not need to be registered, and a certificate of title is not necessary.
Registration
A driver's license or permit is not required for operation.
Licensing
The device does not need to be insured.
Insurance
The device may be operated on a bicycle path. Operators must use due
Operation
care and may not go at speeds that are not "reasonable and prudent under
Segways can only be operated on a road if directly crossing the roadway,
the sidewalk is obstructed or unavailable, under direction of a traffic
control device, or temporarily to reach a motor vehicle.
No passengers may be carried.
The device must have reflectors on its front, back, and wheels, which can
Safety equipment
be seen from 600 feet when in the path of a motor vehicle's headlight.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are in a separate category. Under Minnesota law persons in wheelchairs are
considered pedestrians rather than vehicle operators, and have the same rights and
responsibilities as pedestrians. This is true whether the wheelchair is powered or not.
Wheelchairs are required to remain on sidewalks and stay off streets except to cross them, or in
situations where a passable or useable sidewalk is not available.
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