A Grand Forks resident will be getting his steps in as his motorized scooter has been impounded and he’s facing multiple charges under the Motor Vehicle Act.
RCMP say late Wednesday morning a 55-year-old city man was seen operating his motorized scooter on Market Avenue.
An officer examined the scooter and determined it didn’t meet the requirements of an e-bike but fell under the requirements of a limited speed motorcycle, which has to be registered and insured and the operator needs a driver’s license.
The man was ticketed for having neither insurance nor a license. His license had been suspended. He was given a March court date.
Police say e-bikes and motorized scooters are becoming more popular, however there is a difference between the two. The e-bike commonly has the look of a pedal bike and the motor helps the cyclist pedal. When the cyclist stops pedaling, the motor shuts off or disengages.
Many scooters may have pedals, however, the motor does not disengage or turn off when the pedaling is stopped. There are a few other differences as well that the officer can look for in determining its classification.
E-bike operators don’t need to have their bike registered or insured and operators don’t need driver’s license. They simply need to be 16 or older and wear a bike helmet. Scooters need to be registered and insured, the operator must have a valid drivers license and they must wear a motorcycle helmet.
“Police are always committed to road safety, and part of that is ensuring only proper vehicles and bikes are on the roadway and that they are being operated accordingly,” said Sgt. Darryl Peppler. “This spring, as we start to see more bikes and scooters on our roadways, we will be teaming up with the BC Highway Patrol for an education blitz.”
(CLARIFICATION: The photo we originally posted with this story was not the sort of scooter police were talking about. They say the sort of motorized wheelchair we first pictured does not need insurance or registration and can be ridden on sidewalks.)