Safety Protocols for Operating Power-Assisted Bicycles

0 Comments

The “Highway Traffic Act Power-Assisted Bicycles Regulations Amendment” (EC2023-750) introduces changes to the regulations governing the operation of power-assisted bicycles in Prince Edward Island. These amendments aim to improve safety, particularly for child passengers, while also permitting specific towing scenarios.

The introduction of Subsection 13(5.1), which mandates that operators of power-assisted bicycles carrying a passenger who is a child aged six years or under must adhere to several safety protocols. These protocols require that the child be seated on an approved child bicycle seat, securely attached behind the operator’s seat in a low and forward position, and that the child wear a properly fitted and fastened safety helmet at all times. This regulation highlights the critical importance of child safety during bicycle operation, instituting protective measures designed to minimize risks.

The amendment introduces Subsection 13(6.1), allowing operators of power-assisted bicycles to tow specific types of trailers, including bicycle trailers designed for transporting passengers (including children), cargo trailers suitable for hauling, and electric motorized cargo trailers with a total power output not exceeding 500 watts. This provision acknowledges the practical need for towing capabilities while ensuring that safety standards are maintained.

Subsection 13(6.2) further mandates that any child being transported in a bicycle trailer must wear a properly fitted and fastened safety helmet, reinforcing the commitment to passenger safety, regardless of seating arrangement. Further refinements in Subsection 13(9) explicitly reference all provisions related to bicycle safety helmets, ensuring they meet established safety standards and enhancing safety for all riders and passengers.

By establishing clear guidelines for the safe transport of young passengers and allowing regulated towing practices, the amendments strive to create a safer environment for all road users. These changes aim at aligning with modern transportation needs while emphasizing the need of safety equipment, such as helmets, in reducing cycling-related risks.

Prince Edward Island (EC2023-750) September 23, 2023