Infrastructure Minister to consider legalizing electric scooters
In a recent development, the St Helier Roads Committee has proposed legislation to enable the legal use of e-scooters on Jersey's roads. The proposal, presented by committee member Bernie Manning, is set to be presented to the Infrastructure Minister for consideration.
The report, which has been "tightened" since its initial presentation, focuses on integrating e-scooters into Jersey's transport network in a responsible and balanced manner, considering both innovation and public safety. The report highlights benefits such as traffic relief, environmental advantages, and cost-efficiency.
However, the proposed legislation does not specify whether e-scooters would be legalized on St Helier's roads only or for island-wide use. The Committee has not yet disclosed who proposed the legalization of e-scooters on public roads in Jersey to the Ministry of Transport.
If passed, riding e-scooters or e-bikes faster than 15.5mph on public roads, footpaths, or cycle lanes would be considered an offence. Offenders could face fines, driving bans, prison sentences, and permanent confiscation of their e-scooters or e-bikes.
It's important to note that e-scooters are classified as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic (Jersey) Law 1956 and the Motor Traffic (Third-Party Insurance) (Jersey) Law 1948. This means that the rules that apply to motor vehicles also apply to e-scooters, including the need for a license and insurance. However, at present, it is not possible to get specific insurance or a driving license for e-scooters.
The report suggests a well-regulated approach for integrating e-scooters into Jersey's transport network, including safety measures, infrastructure adjustments, and legal clarity. The St Helier Roads Committee agrees that this approach is necessary to ensure the safe and responsible use of e-scooters on public roads.
The debate about allowing e-scooters on public roads is intensifying, with many voicing their opinions on both sides of the argument. The Committee's meeting on Wednesday provided an update on the progress of the proposed legislation, promising further discussions and decisions in the near future.
As the proposal moves forward, residents of Jersey can expect to hear more about the potential legalization of e-scooters on public roads and the steps being taken to ensure their safe and responsible use.
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