The provincial government has introduced new amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act for those who choose e-scooters, electric unicycles or Segways to get around.
The amendments were introduced on Monday, Oct. 7, 2019. If passed, the amendments will establish a regulatory framework to allow the use of new ways of personal transportation, the province said.
Currently, a device that does not fall under the act’s definition of a motor vehicle, cycle or pedestrian is not permitted to operate on highways or sidewalks. However, some new devices struggle to fit into any category and become “unauthorized vehicles.”
The amendments, the government said, will address the definition of road users to include electric bikes, scooters and skateboards. The proposed amendments will also ensure the definition of road users includes emerging active transportation modes, the government said.
The amendments will enable pilot projects to be established, giving government the chance to partner with communities in researching and testing how new mobility technologies fit in.
“We know people are changing the way they travel, and it’s important that our regulations match these changes,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“There are lots of new ways to travel and we need to make sure our laws reflect the needs of our communities today.”
The strategy is part of the provincial government’s CleanBC plan, which was developed in collaboration with the BC Green Party caucus and supports the commitment in the Confidence and Supply Agreement to implement climate action to meet B.C.’s emission targets.
Comments
NOTE: The North Shore Daily Post welcomes your opinions and comments. We do not allow personal attacks, offensive language or unsubstantiated allegations. We reserve the right to edit comments for length, style, legality and taste and reproduce them in print, electronic or otherwise. For further information, please contact the editor or publisher, or see our Terms and Conditions.