At the Kohn Law Office, we recently accepted a case that highlights a growing public safety issue: our client was struck and injured by a 13-year-old riding a motorized scooter in a  neighborhood in Oceanside, California. Unfortunately, this type of incident is becoming more common as motorized scooters continue to rise in popularity, but so do serious accidents.

This blog post isn't just about our case. It's about the laws California has in place to prevent these tragedies, and why they matter for both public safety and parental responsibility.

The Law: Minimum Age Requirement for Motorized Scooters in California

Under California Vehicle Code § 21235(d), it is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to operate a motorized scooter on public roads, bike paths, or sidewalks. This includes popular rental scooters (such as Bird, Lime, and others), as well as privately owned electric scooters.

California law treats motorized scooters similarly to motor vehicles in several respects. Riders must:

• Be at least 16 years old,

• Wear a helmet at all times (even adults),

• Obey traffic laws, and

• Avoid sidewalks, unless entering or exiting adjacent property.

Why Age Matters

Children under 16 typically lack the physical coordination, maturity, and judgment to operate motorized vehicles safely in public spaces. Their reaction times are slower, and they often misjudge traffic patterns or speeds. Allowing young teenagers to operate scooters creates a foreseeable risk not just to themselves, but to everyone around them.

When a minor causes an injury while engaging in conduct that is prohibited by law, such as operating a scooter underage, their parents can be held legally responsible.

Parental Liability in California

California law recognizes that parents may be civilly liable for the actions of their children in certain circumstances. Specifically:

• Civil Code § 1714.1 allows recovery of damages from a parent or guardian if their minor willfully causes injury to another person or property.

• Negligent supervision is another basis for parental liability. If a parent allows or negligently fails to prevent their child from engaging in unlawful or dangerous activity—such as riding an illegal scooter—the parent may be liable for resulting harm.

In our current case, the facts will likely show that the parent allowed their 13-year-old to ride a scooter illegally in a public area, violating California law and contributing directly to our client's injuries.

What This Means for the Public

Parents must understand that electric scooters are not toys—they are motorized vehicles subject to specific legal restrictions. Allowing children under 16 to operate them isn't just illegal; it's irresponsible and potentially dangerous.

Public safety depends on education and enforcement. We urge all parents to:

• Follow California scooter laws,

• Supervise their children appropriately,

• Never allow minors under 16 to operate motorized scooters, even on private streets or in neighborhoods.

Injured by a Scooter? We Can Help.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a motorized scooter, whether operated by a minor or adult, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. The Kohn Law Office is the best place to seek help, we have decades of experience representing victims of negligent or unlawful behavior, and we're ready to fight for you.

Contact the Kohn Law Office at (760) 721-8182 today for a free consultation. We'll review your case and help you understand your legal options. Justice starts with knowledge—and action.