City police are advising the public that people using mobility scooters and power wheelchairs are allowed to use them on sidewalks, along with pedestrians and people using manual wheelchairs. Police say they are also permitted on City bike paths.
However, police say E-bikes and scooters, which are designed for recreational use instead of mobility aid for people with mobility impairment, are not allowed be used on the sidewalk.
While e-bike and scooter operators do not require a licence, insurance or registration in order to drive, they still have to obey the Highway Traffic Act and the City of North Bay Traffic By-Law. That mean’s they must be 16 years of age or older. They must wear an approved helmet, and have a working bell or horn. They must have functioning lights for driving at night. They must ride on the right side of the road, with the flow of traffic. They must obey traffic signs and lights, and they are permitted on City Bike paths in pedal mode only.
