DICKINSON — A serious accident involving a scooter claimed the life of a juvenile on Saturday afternoon, May 24, at 2:41 p.m.
Authorities report that the crash occurred on 30th Avenue West, just west of Dickinson Middle School, where a juvenile struck a light pole while traveling south. Emergency responders from the North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP) confirmed the juvenile was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident but did not survive.
The vehicle involved was a 2021 Honda WW150, identified by NDHP as a scooter. However, local definitions raise concerns about its classification, as the vehicle has an engine displacement of 157 cc, qualifying it as a motorcycle under North Dakota law.
According to Lt. Mike Hanel of the Dickinson Police Department (DPD), the Honda WW150 is considered a motorcycle based on its engine size, which requires operation on roadways rather than sidewalks. This aspect of the incident is being scrutinized, especially in light of discrepancies in local and state definitions of scooters and motorcycles.
Witnesses reported that the juvenile lost control and veered right before overturning. The crash prompted lane closures as authorities investigated the scene. The speed limit in the area is 35 miles per hour.
The DPD anticipates addressing the confusion regarding scooter and motorcycle classifications in future ordinance reviews. Citizens with questions about local regulations are encouraged to contact the department for clarification.
No further information on upcoming safety measures or changes to municipal codes is available at this time.