the OPP
The Rainy River District OPP would like to remind those operating motorized wheelchairs or medical scooter that they are considered the same as pedestrians under the Highway Traffic Act.
A sidewalk should be the first choice for someone using a wheelchair or medical scooter.
When there is no wheelchair accessible curb or a visible hazard, the person should return to the sidewalk at the first available opportunity.
When travelling on a sidewalk, consideration should be given to others using the same route in order to avoid a collision.
If there is no sidewalk available, or the sidewalk is not wheelchair accessible, people using wheelchairs or personal mobility devices should travel, like pedestrians, along the left shoulder of the roadway facing oncoming traffic.
Of course, safety considerations, such as volume of traffic, ensuring a safe and level path of travel, and obeying the rules of the road, always should be taken into consideration when planning your route.
Remember, vehicles must give pedestrians or personal mobility devices the right-of-way.
Signalling alone does not give you the right-of-way. You must make sure the way is clear.
