New regulations are set to be implemented next year for individuals using personal electric vehicles such as e-scooters and electric skateboards. The upcoming rules in Manitoba will introduce age and speed limits for these devices, extending to e-unicycles, hoverboards, and self-balancing scooters.
Starting in 2027, riders must adhere to the new regulations outlined under Manitoba’s Highway Traffic Act. The province mandates that users, including passengers, must be at least 16 years old and wear appropriately fitting helmets.
Under the incoming speed limit, personal electric vehicles are restricted from exceeding speeds of 25 km/h. They will be prohibited from using sidewalks and are only permitted on pathways, bicycle lanes, and roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or lower. Local regulations may allow their use at certain cycling facilities.
Contrarily, e-bikes are exempt from the new rules and can operate on roads with speed limits surpassing 50 km/h, as stated in a provincial frequently asked questions document.
Personal electric vehicles, including e-skateboards, will have to follow new rules under Manitoba’s Highway Traffic Act starting in 2027. (Kate McKenna/CBC)
The government emphasizes that users of personal electric vehicles should comply with standard road rules, including obeying traffic signs and signals, refraining from riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and utilizing mandatory lights and reflectors for nighttime riding.
Authorities, including police and peace officers, have the authority to stop riders not adhering to the new regulations, as mentioned by the province.
Transportation Minister Lisa Naylor expressed concern over the increasing usage of personal electric vehicles in Manitoba, highlighting the need for clearer rules to ensure the safety of individuals, especially children, using these devices.
In response to recent incidents, Naylor stressed the importance of injury prevention and community safety, citing a specific case of a teenager critically injured in a collision involving an e-scooter in Winnipeg.
To address these concerns, the government aims to establish comprehensive guidelines to enhance safety and mitigate risks associated with personal electric vehicle usage.
Morden, a city in southern Manitoba, previously introduced its own regulations for personal electric vehicles, focusing on helmet requirements and sidewalk restrictions. The enforcement of these bylaws has been primarily educational.
Mayor Nancy Penner anticipates aligning Morden’s regulations with the forthcoming provincial rules, emphasizing the widespread support expected from various communities towards the government’s initiative.
Winnipeg e-scooter advocate Rob Kristjansson expressed mixed feelings regarding the upcoming regulations, acknowledging their positive impact while questioning specific aspects of the rules.
Krist
