Manitoba to introduce new e-scooter and electric vehicle regulations

Manitoba is set to introduce new provincial regulations for e-scooters and other personal electric vehicles, including electric skateboards, hoverboards, and unicycles. The changes, which will bring these devices under the Highway Traffic Act, are intended to improve safety and address injury concerns among young riders.

Under the new rules, riders must be at least 16 years old, and both riders and passengers are required to wear properly fitted helmets. The legislation will prohibit the use of these vehicles on sidewalks unless specifically permitted by signage. Additionally, a speed limit of 25 km/h will be imposed on the devices, and they will be restricted to roads with a maximum speed limit of 50 km/h.

While safety advocates have expressed support for the age and helmet requirements, some have raised concerns regarding the 25 km/h speed limit and its potential impact on road traffic flow.