§ 21227 Motorized Scooter Brake Requirements

Vehicle Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says motorized scooters must have a safety feature that stops the motor when you brake or let go of the throttle.

Key Takeaways

•Your scooter must stop the motor when you brake.
•Or, it must have a switch that turns off the motor when you let go.
•If your scooter doesn’t do one of these, it’s illegal to ride.

Example

You're riding an electric scooter and squeeze the brakes.

The motor must turn off right away when you brake, so you don't keep speeding up while trying to stop.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 21227 Motorized Scooter Brake Requirements

(a) A motorized scooter shall comply with one of the following: (1) Operate in a manner so that the electric motor is disengaged or ceases to function when the brakes are applied. (2) Operate in a manner so that the motor is engaged through a switch or mechanism that, when released, will cause the electric motor to disengage or cease to function. (b) It is unlawful for a person to operate a motorized scooter that does not meet one of the requirements of subdivision (a). (Added by Stats. 1999, Ch. 722, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2000.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

motorized scooter electric motor disengaged switch or mechanism

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Vehicle Code. Section 21227.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References