Cities demand licensing for motorized chair users

[Tony_FLADEM]

People who use motorized wheelchairs and similar small scooters may need a licence to drive if B.C. municipalities succeed in a push to regulate "personal mobility vehicles."

The Union of B.C. Municipalities is endorsing a call by Sidney council for regulation, training and testing of such people - whether they're using powered chairs for health reasons or age - after fielding complaints of people driving too fast on the sidewalk or not knowing the rules of the road.

Without regulation, the resolution states, "the safety of all motorists, businesses and pedestrians is at risk."

"Part of the problem is we're a senior community over here in Sidney," said Mayor Larry Cross. "We're seeing people who have no idea what they're doing when they're driving these machines. ... My wife dodged one the other day that nearly knocked her over."

Motorized wheelchairs and small "mobility" scooters do not require registration, insurance or a licence in B.C. Classic scooters, which are more similar to motorcycles, do require a driver's licence and insurance.

Vancouver resident Tom McGregor, who has needed a motorized chair to get around for 18 years, said it would be "blatantly unfair" to regulate them.

http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Cities+demand+licensing+motorized+chair+users/8824328/story.html