Should motorized mobility devices and wheelchairs be allowed in bike lanes? It’s a question being asked by Victoria councillors Dave Thompson, Jeremy Caradonna and advocates.
According to Caradonna, people who use the devices are going in the lanes despite it being technically illegal.
“They haven’t created the regulations that go with the legislation,” said Caradonna.
“So, as of this moment, it’s still a grey area for a mobility scooter or an electric scooter or an electric skateboard to be in a bike lane.”
Caradonna adds that his ultimate request is that the province and their legislation and regulations keep up with the changing reality.
READ ALSO: City of Victoria completes 2.7-km stretch of protected bike lanes on Fort Street
Disability activist Susan Simmons says the Motor Vehicle Act doesn’t go far enough to ensure these lanes are inclusive for everyone.
Simmons has multiple sclerosis (MS), and she is concerned about herself and others when it comes to accessibility in public places.
“When we bring people in with motorized scooters, with motorized wheelchairs, are they built for that purpose?” asked Simmons.
“Not having access to the city is sending us back to the dark ages where we were hidden in homes, and I don’t think anybody wants that,” she added.
“That’s not my impression of Victoria.”
In a statement to CHEK News, B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation said people using mobility devices have the same rights and duties as pedestrians, which includes sidewalks when available.
The ministry says it’s continuing to work with local governments to build safer infrastructure.
The motion to advocate to the province will go to the Capital Regional District (CRD) board on March 13, and another motion to the exact same thing is expected at an upcoming Victoria council meeting.
Tchadas Leo
