East Algoma OPP – Know the Law before you buy a Mobility Scooter

The East Algoma Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is providing information for those looking to buy a Mobility Assisted Scooter (MAS) or a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV).

Is it a MAS or a LSV?

Enclosed LSV’s are often marketed as MAS’s in order to sell to consumers. Enclosed, microcar-style electric vehicles (LSV’s) are becoming more common, and while they are often marketed as mobility scooters, they are significantly different from traditional medical mobility devices. LSV’s are generally larger, enclosed, a throttle and brake pedal, have a steering wheel, and may include vehicle-style features such as lights, mirrors, seatbelt, windshield, speedometer, and maximum speed capabilities of 30 km/h or higher. As such, these devices are more consistent with the Ministry of Transportation’s definition of an LSV rather than a traditional pedestrian mobility device, or MAS.

An enclosed MAS has the same basic controls as a three or four wheeled ride-on mobility scooter – handlebars, hand-operated brake and throttle, and can have a seat belt, turn signals, headlight and/or taillight.

Where Can They Be Operated?

MAS’s shall use the sidewalk where one is permitted, giving right of way to walking pedestrians, on the side of the road facing vehicular traffic, within a metre of the curb.

LSV’s cannot be operated on municipal roadways, in bicycle lanes, or on sidewalks, and can lead to provincial charges, including:

• Operate motor vehicle without insurance under the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act
• Furthermore, under the Highway Traffic Act:
• Drive motor vehicle – no currently validated permit/no permit
• Drive motor vehicle – improper/no licence (if the driver is unlicensed)
• Drive motor vehicle – no plates
• Driving while under suspension (if the driver is a suspended driver)

Police may also seize a vehicle that is not operating in compliance with applicable legislation. Even if a vehicle is sold or advertised as a mobility scooter, that does not automatically mean it is considered a mobility device under provincial legislation. Consumers are responsible for understanding applicable legislation before making any purchases.

In addition, the size, weight, and speed capabilities of these vehicles can create significant safety risks. On sidewalks, they may put pedestrians at risk of injury. On roadways or in bicycle lanes, they may put the operator, motorists, and cyclists at risk of injury.

The OPP is committed to saving lives on Ontario’s highways, trails and waterways through high visibility patrols and enforcement in order to reduce preventable injuries and death.

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OPP

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) provide policing services throughout Ontario. Our officers are responsible for policing over one million square kilometres of land and waterways. They provide frontline policing services to more than 320 Ontario municipalities and patrol over 126,000 kilometres of provincial roadways.

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