Motorized scooters require a drivers license: Grand Forks RCMP

Photo: Contributed

49 cc Honda Ruckus

A Grand Forks man is facing multiple charges after his motorized scooter was seized and impounded last week.

RCMP say the incident occurred on Jan. 18 just after 11 a.m. on Market Avenue in the downtown core.

"The officer examined the scooter and determined it did not meet the requirements for a motor-assisted cycle, also known as an e-bike, rather it fell under the requirements of a limited-speed motorcycle(LSM). As an LSM, the scooter needs to be registered and insured and the operator needs to have a valid driver's license."

The officer found the driver, a 55-year-old local man, had a suspended licence and was prohibited under the Motor Vehicle Act. He was given tickets and will appear in court in March.

"E-bikes and motorized scooters are becoming more popular, however, there is a difference between the two," said Sgt. Darryl Peppler.

"The MAC or e-bike commonly has the look of a pedal bike and the motor attached simply assists the cyclist when they are pedalling. When the cyclist stops pedalling, the motor shuts off or disengages. Many scooters may have pedals, however, if the motor does not disengage or turn off when the pedalling is stopped, then it is likely an LSM."

Mounties are reminding limited-speed motorcycle operators that their vehicles need to be registered and insured and they need a driver's licence to operate the vehicles.

"This spring, as we start to see more bikes and scooters on our roadways, we will be teaming up with the BC Highway Patrol for an education blitz," said Peppler.