Electric scooters can be found almost everywhere in the state, from bike paths to streets.
However, according to theQuebec Ministry of Transport (MTQ), the law is written in black and white and only allowed on private property.
Despite their increasing popularity, low-speed electric standing scooters are illegal on public roads in Quebec, including sidewalks.
"For now, the law is clear: You cannot use low-speed electric scooters on public roads or on bike paths adjacent to public roads," said Louis André, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Transport of Quebec. Bertrand said.
As part of a statewide pilot project, GeeBee's e-scooters are now the only electric electric scooters permitted on Quebec roads, according to the State Automobile Insurance Commission (SAAQ) .
"Currently, electric scooters are prohibited from riding on road networks, except those planned as part of a pilot project," SAAQ spokesman Gino Desrosiers said in a statement.
Story Continues Below Advertisement
Read More: SGI Discusses Potential E-Scooter Regulation Seeking public feedback
This pilot project was launched in 2019 as the second project to study integration, safety, and security concerns in riding vehicles. It was intended to
The project was originally scheduled to finish this fall, but has since been extended to September 2023.
Speed electric scooters will impact traffic and other road users," Bertrand said.
Trending Stories
There are still unresolved issues with fairly new technology, and the law is just a snap of the fingers. He added that it cannot be changed.
According to MTQ, the study will see if new traffic laws need to be implemented to allow e-scooters to be safely ridden.
However, SAAQ officials said they were positive about legalizing the use of electric scooters, but said, "But first, the conditions to ensure the safety of users and others. needs to be identified," Desrosiers said.
Alex Malenfant says he has been riding electric scooters for the past two years and knows nothing of the law.
"I didn't know. Even on the bike path? … Are you serious?
He claims to have never been stopped by the police in the city, and he and his partner cycle to work each week.
This law states that It came as a surprise to long-time cyclist Michael Mili, who said electric scooters were just as safe as bicycles:
"It's a lot like a bicycle. I can't tell the difference." Same speed, same control, easier to start and stop, more efficient,” says Mili.
Read more: London, Ontario. Commission rejects sharing systems in favor of controlling e-scooter use
Regarding law enforcement, Montreal Police said: read the statement. Any rider who doesn't follow the rules will be fined $175 to $300 for him.
But road safety law enforcement has lagged behind the growing number of electric scooter riders.
Since 2018, less than 100 of his tickets have been issued by Montreal police.
"There are all laws and regulations to be enforced, but interventions need to be prioritized according to several factors, such as crime risk and accident-prone areas," police said. official said.
READ MORE: Brampton e-scooter launch raises accessibility and safety concerns
© 2022 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
