There’s a new bill in town and it’s targeted squarely at owners of Personal Electronic Vehicles (PEV). The Active Mobility Act, which was passed in Parliament this week, will regulate the use of e-bikes and PEVs by imposing strict penalties for offences like riding PEVs on pedestrian-only paths, or using PEVs recklessly.
If you’re wondering why these measures are even necessary, it’s because of reckless electric scooter riders, an e-scooter accident that sent a pedestrian into a coma and another accident that killed two and injured one.
The new laws which will take effect later this year, state that PEVs (electric scooters, hoverboards, unicycles) are allowed on footpaths at a speed limit of 15kph, while cycling paths and park connectors can be used by those riding bicycles, PEVs and e-bikes at a limit of 25kph. Pedestrian-only paths and roads are strictly off-limits to PEVs. If you’re caught riding where you’re not supposed to, or pulling a Fast & Furious down the highway on your PEV, you’re looking at a $1,000 fine, three months in jail, or both. It is now also an offence if PEV users do not provide assistance in a car accident, while sellers will be penalized if they display, advertise and sell devices that do not comply with guidelines.
While not yet passed, other measures that were discussed for the Active Mobility Act include registering all PEV users, making third-party insurance mandatory, instating an above 18 years old age limit for PEV users and making it compulsory for users to have basic knowledge of the Highway Code.
Come on guys it’s really not that difficult. If you want to ride a PEV, be responsible about it.
This story originally appeared on Stuff Singapore, bringing you what’s next in the world of tech and gadgets, with a twist.
