Question: The question about the rules of the road for bicyclists prompted me to wonder about the rules of the road for motor scooters. It appears they do not need to be licensed (tags), which leads to insurance concerns, etc., but my real question is, "What are the rules motor scooters on area roadways? Are they permitted to travel (not approaching a left turn, mind you) on two and three lane roadways?  It seems awfully dangerous considering their top speed is maybe 30 miles per hour!

Answer From Officer Jamie Walker: A mo-ped is defined under State Code 46.2-100 as: "Mo-ped" means every vehicle that travels on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground that has (i) a seat that is no less than 24 inches in height, measured from the middle of the seat perpendicular to the ground and (ii) a gasoline, electric, or hybrid motor that displaces less than 50 cubic centimeters. For purposes of this title, a mo-ped shall be a motorcycle when operated at speeds in excess of 35 miles per hour. For purposes of Chapter 8 (§ 46.2-800 et seq.), a mo-ped shall be a vehicle while operated on a highway.

This means that mo-peds are not restricted from using any roadways except interstate highways or other roadways where specific exemptions apply.  Chapter 8 pertains to moving violations and that clause is simply a stipulation that while mo-ped operators are not required to register or insure their vehicles, and that riders need not be licensed, it dictates that riders must adhere to all rules of the road. Therefore, a mo-ped rider can be convicted of speeding, running red lights, DUI, etc.

Please note that mo-peds have very few safety devices and that helmets are not required. It is just as important for mo-ped riders to take all possible safety precautions as it is for motorists operating cars to maintain awareness and diligence when sharing the road with such non-traditional vehicles. Mistakes with a mo-ped are unforgiving, as we unfortunately learned in Fredericksburg last October.

Question: What are the City regulations regarding use of cell phones by City Police officer (or other employees on "duty") while walking downtown? Military bases have rule against waking, driving or bicycling while using a cell phone.  Does the City of Fredericksburg have similar regulations?

Answer: The City of Fredericksburg does not have any regulations concerning employee use of cell phones while walking.