‘City council should create a reasonable bylaw allowing these vehicles on sidewalks at walking speed, with pedestrians always having the right of way,’ a reader said
A reader sent this letter to the editor in response to police reminding users of enclosed mobility scooters that they are not allowed to use them on roads or sidewalks. Police said they can only use enclosed scooters on private property.
The recent warning that enclosed mobility scooters are not permitted on Sault Ste. Marie streets or sidewalks leaves their owners with a simple question: where are they supposed to go?
These are not motorcycles, recreational e-scooters or toys. For some seniors and people with limited mobility, they are an affordable way to buy groceries, attend appointments, visit family and remain independent. They are not being driven for fun.
Some will say owners should use conventional open mobility scooters instead. That ignores the reality of living in Sault Ste. Marie. For much of the year, we face snow, freezing rain, wind and bitter cold. An open scooter may be legal, but it is not a practical year-round option in our climate. The enclosure is not a luxury; it is what makes the vehicle usable.
Anyone who lives here also knows that most sidewalks are empty most of the time. Long stretches of residential and downtown sidewalks often have no pedestrians on them at all. Roads, meanwhile, are far more dangerous for slow-moving vehicles surrounded by cars and trucks.
Pedestrian safety must come first, but that does not require a complete ban. City council should create a reasonable bylaw allowing these vehicles on sidewalks at walking speed, with pedestrians always having the right of way. Lights, reflectors and other basic safety requirements could be imposed, and anyone operating recklessly could be ticketed.
Police are responsible for enforcing the law as it exists, but council is responsible for deciding whether that law makes sense for this community. Enforcement resources should focus on people creating an actual danger, not on a small number of residents trying to maintain their independence.
A vehicle should not be banned merely because it does not fit neatly into existing categories when sensible rules could address legitimate concerns.
As someone who had to use a regular mobility scooter for almost a year – I know what a life changer they can be.
For these owners, this is about freedom, dignity and mobility.
A practical local solution would protect pedestrians while allowing responsible users to travel safely on sidewalks that are empty for most of the day.
Robert Peace
Sault Ste. Marie