A Rise in E-Scooters
The Cayman Islands has recently seen a rise in the popularity of electric scooters as a mode of transportation. These compact and convenient vehicles have become a common sight on the island’s streets, providing an alternative to traditional modes of transport. With the growing popularity of e-scooters, the Cayman Islands government will have to address the legal status and rules surrounding the use of e-scooters. to ensure public safety.
What is an E-Scooter Defined as?
The Traffic Act (2021 Revision) defines “vehicle” as follows:-
“vehicle” means a wheeled or tracked vehicle capable of being driven or towed on a road, and includes an electrically powered vehicle, agricultural and earthmoving vehicle, motorcycle, scooter and wheeled trailer, but does not include a hand cart, barrow or baby carriage;
It goes on to define “motorcycle” as
“motorcycle” means a vehicle, but not an invalid carriage, with three wheels or less, which is used for the transportation of people, and includes a motor scooter and moped, but does not include an all-terrain cycle;
It seems therefore, for the purposes of Cayman law, that e-scooters are classed as motorcycles.
However, in other parts of the world where e-scooters have been introduced they have been categorized as “personal transportation devices” with the result that the usual traffic laws do not apply to e-scooters. Around the world, the law has yet to catch up with the popularity and rapid deployment of e-scooters.
E-Scooter Safety Concerns
While the popularity of e-scooters has grown, there have been increasing concerns about their impact on public safety. The government must collaborate with e-scooter providers to ensure that their operations align with the island’s regulations and to promote responsible use.
For now, caution is key. You should not attempt to ride a scooter if you do not have a valid driving license or are under the influence of alcohol. You should always make sure to wear a helmet and other safety equipment. Weaving in and out of traffic is also very dangerous.
If you are involved in an accident on an e-scooter then it is likely that you would be considered to be a “vulnerable road user” similar to cyclists and pedestrians. Vulnerable road users have little to no protection in the event of a crash. As such, non-vulnerable road users (car, truck, bus drivers, etc.) would be expected to take particular care when approaching you on the e-scooter.
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