A surge in the popularity of battery-powered bikes and scooters has led to a rise in injuries and complaints due to the lack of regulations. However, one city in Manitoba has now implemented clear rules, with violators facing a $50 fine and possible impoundment of their vehicle, as stated on the City of Morden’s website.
Morden police Chief Sean Aune emphasized a safety-first approach, especially for educating the public and youth about the potential dangers. The lack of regulations previously allowed young riders to operate these vehicles at high speeds without helmets. This prompted the city to take action to establish guidelines for where and how these devices can be used.
Morden, situated approximately 95 kilometers southwest of Winnipeg, recently updated its traffic control bylaw to include all personal electric vehicles (PEVs) such as 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.
While Bill 43 sets a framework for PEV use on public roads, including age restrictions and speed limits, it has not yet been enacted into law. Additional regulatory work is needed to fully implement the bill, according to the provincial government.
The forthcoming rules will apply across all municipalities, but local governments can create their own bylaws to tailor regulations to their specific requirements. For instance, while Bill 43 prohibits PEV operation on sidewalks, municipalities can permit it through their own amendments.
The City of Winnipeg is still evaluating potential bylaw changes that align with its needs. The differences between urban and rural environments regarding PEV usage and safety considerations are significant, according to Chief Aune.
Other municipalities are contemplating following Morden’s lead in regulating PEVs, although concerns about enforcing the new rules persist. The AMM is seeking clarification on the authority of community safety officers to enforce the regulations, particularly in smaller communities where resources are limited.
In Morden, enforcement responsibilities fall on the city’s police officers and bylaw officer. However, immediate strict enforcement measures such as police pulling over scooters are unlikely, as the focus remains on promoting compliance and ensuring safety gradually.
