I am writing with great concern for the number of electric bikes and scooters that are now sharing the road with vehicles.
I think that these forms of transportation should be licensed and have to have some form of insurance. It is not right that vehicle owners are held responsible for any accident, traffic or parking violation, but riders of scooters, bikes and e-bikes can essentially do whatever they like.
I don't know how many times I have almost been hit by bikes while I am adhering to the rules of the road. Why is it not more policed? For example, I was at the lights at Beacon by Thrifty's turning right, and there were about eight bikes on the opposite side turning left. The light turned green, I proceeded to go into my lane, and the bikes came around and instantly came into my lane. I had to slam on the brakes and they gave me a load of lip even though they were totally in the wrong.
Something has to be done to make these forms of transportation adhere to the laws of the road. I work right beside the bike path on the highway, and the speed some of these bikes go is incredible. It is just a matter of time before someone gets seriously injured.
To drive a vehicle, you have to be 16 years old and get a licence, but anyone over 16 can ride an e-bike going 30 km/h. It is ridiculous.
Teresa Fournier
Sidney
