Israel Allows Segway HTs in Pedestrian Traffic Areas

Israeli newspaper Haaretz Daily reported earlier this week that the members of the Knesset Economics Committee have approved new rules that will allow Segway, LLC's battery-powered, two-wheeled Human Transporters (HTs) to travel on the nation's sidewalks, or places intended solely for "pedestrian traffic."
According to the newspaper, the new regulations stipulate that HT riders must be 16 years of age or older. However, the newspaper noted that those operating the scooters are not required to possess a driver's or vehicle license.
The paper noted that the new rules also limit the maximum speed of the self-balancing HTs, which are capable of travelling at speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour (kph). Before the committee approved the new rules, the newspaper said HTs were only allowed to operate in closed areas, such as malls and factories.