Sikeston creates rules for motorized wheelchair use on city streets

SIKESTON, Mo. -- The Sikeston City Council passed a bill during its Monday morning meeting regulating the use of motorized wheelchairs on city streets and alleyways.

"The whole purpose of this was safety for everybody's sake," said Linda Lowes, director of governmental services.

The ordinance requires that, if operated on city streets and alleyways, motorized wheelchairs be equipped with a slow-moving equipment emblem and a triangular day-glow bicycle safety flag of at least 30 square inches in size flown at least seven feet above the ground.

Operators of these motorized wheelchairs are subject to all traffic codes and regulations and are prohibited from operating their motorized wheelchair in a careless or imprudent manner or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Motorized wheelchairs may cross but not drive on federal, state or county highways and can only cross federal, state or county highways that have a speed limit of 45 mph or less.

Motorized wheelchairs may not carry a passenger other than the operator.

Action on a bill regulating the operation of golf carts, utility vehicles and all-terrain vehicles on city streets and alleyways is slated for the council's regular meeting Monday.