Winkler's mayor would like to see scooter drivers change what's become a common occurrence.

Mayor Martin Harder says there is an increasing number of scooters that have been driving around downtown, and even out on the highway.

After recently speaking with Winkler Police, Harder reminds scooter drivers that the traffic that's been seen on the roads has been tolerated, it is not legal, and you could be fined for driving down the street with a scooter.

Harder says he encourages people to start driving their scooters on the sidewalk, and not the roads. "And for those that have these speed mobiles for scooters, some of them are nice and slow. But those who think it's necessary to drive through the sidewalk at 30 km/h, please don't."

When driving on a sidewalk with a scooter, Harder says you are responsible for stopping at all intersections the same as other traffic would stop...same as a pedestrian, you would watch for traffic, because we have had so many near misses."

According to Winkler Police Chief Ryan Hunt, persons on mobility scooters are considered a pedestrian and not a vehicle and therefore should be travelling on the sidewalk whenever possible. He says if there is no sidewalk or the sidewalk is under repairs then the scooter user is allowed to move onto the street, but should travel on the shoulder as close to the curb as possible and return to the sidewalk as soon as they can.

The following are some bulletin points regarding scooter driving, provided by Chief Hunt.

ACCORDING TO THE LAW
• A person operating a mobility vehicle, which includes motorized mobility aids like wheelchairs and scooters, is classified as a pedestrian under the Manitoba Highway Traffic Act.
• Mobility scooters are allowed a maximum speed capability of 15 km/hr, but the maximum travel speed of these scooters is 10 km/h or less.
• Mobility scooters must only carry one person.
• Mobility scooters do not require registration, licence plates, driver’s licence or vehicle insurance.

 

CONDUCT
• For your safety and those around you
Safe Scooting Habits
• Even though scooter users are considered pedestrians, you must give other pedestrians the right of way
• Keep your speed low
• Remember that pedestrians are unpredictable – especially children
• Plan your trips during off peak periods.
For example, don’t hit the sidewalk when school is letting out, or during lunchtime in the business district
• Keep to one side of the sidewalk, and always ascend and descend curbs and ramps straight on
• Slow down when making turns
• Stay seated at all times
• Avoid left turns, if possible