The rise in popularity of battery-operated bikes and scooters has brought about a surge in injuries and complaints due to the lack of regulation. However, one city in Manitoba has taken steps to address this issue by implementing clear rules.
Violating any of these rules will result in a $50 fine, and in cases of repeated violations, the vehicle may be impounded, as stated on the City of Morden’s website.
According to Morden police Chief Sean Aune, the primary focus is on safety and educating the public, especially young individuals. Aune expressed concern over the lack of helmets, the speed at which these vehicles can operate, and the absence of regulations prior to the new rules coming into effect.
Morden, located approximately 95 kilometers southwest of Winnipeg, recently updated its traffic control bylaw to encompass all personal electric vehicles (PEVs), including e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-skateboards. This move makes Morden the first municipality in the province to do so, following the passing of Bill 43 by the provincial government.
Bill 43, known as The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act, sets the groundwork for governing the use of PEVs on public roads, along with specifying minimum age requirements and maximum speeds. While the bill was officially passed on June 1, it is pending proclamation into law as further regulatory work is necessary to support its full implementation.
Once proclaimed, the rules outlined in Bill 43 will apply across all municipalities. However, municipalities have the authority to establish their own bylaws tailored to their specific requirements. For instance, while the bill prohibits operating PEVs on sidewalks, municipalities can permit this through their own amendments.
The provincial framework lacks details on certain aspects such as cyclist positioning on roads and hand signal usage, which would need to be addressed through municipal amendments if necessary, as stated by a City of Winnipeg spokesperson.
While larger cities have designated bike lanes for PEV users, rural areas present different needs. Morden’s approach aims to create rules suitable for their community, taking into account these differences.
Other municipalities are considering following Morden’s example, but concerns have arisen regarding the enforcement of the new rules once they are enforced province-wide. The AMM is seeking clarification on the authority of community safety officers in overseeing these regulations.
Enforcement in Morden will be carried out by the city’s police officers and bylaw officer. Aune emphasized the importance of compliance and safety in their approach to implementing and enforcing the new rules.
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