07/15/2026
Great information from the Phillips County Sheriff's Office in response to a electric scooter accident in Bozeman. Electric bike will fall under the same set of rules.
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Motorized Scooter Safety and Montana Law
The Phillips County Sheriff's Office has received several questions regarding the use of motorized scooters on the streets of Malta. As their popularity continues to grow, we would like to remind riders and parents of the laws that apply to these vehicles.
Under Montana law, a motorized scooter operator has the same rights and responsibilities as the driver of any other vehicle when operating on a public roadway. This means riders must obey all traffic control devices, travel in the proper direction of traffic, yield when required, and follow all applicable traffic laws.
Motorized scooters may be operated on city streets, provided they are operated lawfully. However, motorized scooters may not be ridden under motor power on sidewalks or bicycle paths. If a rider is on a sidewalk, the scooter must be propelled by foot and not by its motor. Riders must also yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and exercise care around those using sidewalks and crosswalks.
Parents are encouraged to discuss safe riding practices with their children. Riders should:
Wear a properly fitted helmet and other protective equipment.
Stay alert and avoid distractions such as cell phones or headphones.
Be visible to motorists, especially during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours.
Ride at a safe speed for conditions and be courteous to pedestrians and other roadway users.
Motorists should also be aware that motorized scooters are legal users of public roadways and should provide them the same consideration afforded to bicyclists.
Our goal is education and safety. By understanding and following Montana law, we can all help prevent unnecessary crashes and injuries while sharing our roadways.
