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The Upper Ottawa Valley detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police is urging residents to familiarize themselves with the rules governing e-bikes and e-scooters as the electric-powered vehicles become more common on local roads and trails.
Police say Ontario law requires e-bikes to have working pedals, an electric motor of no more than 500 watts and a maximum assisted speed of 32 kilometres an hour. Riders must be at least 16, wear an approved helmet and obey the same traffic laws as cyclists.
E-scooters are limited to 500-watt motors and top speeds of 24 kilometres an hour. Operators must be at least 16 years old, while those under 18 are required to wear helmets. Municipal bylaws determine where e-scooters may be used.
The OPP says compliant vehicles do not require a driver’s licence, registration or insurance. However, altering an e-bike or e-scooter to exceed legal limits could result in it being classified as a motor vehicle, exposing riders to additional offences under provincial legislation.
Police also remind the public that impaired driving laws under the Criminal Code apply to both e-bikes and e-scooters, with alcohol- or drug-impaired riders facing potential criminal charges.
(Richard Evans)
