Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD) & The Law
The Segway® Personal Transporter (PT) meets all the safety standards, and product standards as set out by the Federal Government. This generally fits into the definition of an Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device. Therefore, the Segway PT can be used on privately owned property, in any State in the U.S., provided the owner of the property has given permission.
In February of this year (2016), 45 of our States, and the District of Columbia have allowed the use of Segway Personal Transporters on bike paths, certain roads, and sidewalks, through enacted legislation. Now remember, not all States are created equal, and therefore don’t all have the exact same laws. Be prudent, and conduct your due diligence before flying out the door with your Segway PT
***Sidenote: The terms “Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD)” or “Personal Motorized Mobility Device” are used in many of the State laws. By general definition, do include the Segway PT (the odd exception may apply, so do your homework).
In most States, the use of additional laws pertaining to the Segway PT, has been granted to local governments, through the existing State legislation. It is the recommendation of Segway® that buyers and owners of the Segway PT do their due diligence within their riding-area.
Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD) – Acceptance
While, it has been (and is still) an uphill battle to get the Segway PT the classification required to be an EPAMD, progress is being seen. For example, BART (San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit) is allowing the EPAMD’s on their system, with approval. Apply, using the appropriate application form, and once approved, receive a permit that allows you to bring your unit on BART.
Segway PT Uses In Various Countries
The use of Segways, generally is increasing globally. Here are some countries that utilize Segways and HOW they are using them:
- In the Amwaj Islands, a group of man-made islands in the Persian Gulf, one can get a short term rental of a Segway.
- In China, the police have started to us Segways for the patrolling of particular public areas, like Tian’anmen Square.
- Beijing International Airport is also patrolled by police on Segways.
Click Here for a more comprehensive list.
- Other airports also supply Segways to certain workers. While not an exhaustive list, here are some of the airports which utilize a Segway in some shape or form:
The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi
Hong Kong International Airport
Beijing International Airport
Singapore – Changi Airport
Ireland – Dublin Airport
These airports use of the Segway PT, vary. Some are for simply getting from one end to the other, quickly. While law enforcement utilize the EPAMD more than any other branch of employment, in most of these airports. It’s very convenient for law enforcement because of how much ground can be covered in a short time.