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Cyclist groups push for change in law

Legislators yesterday call on the government to pay attention to bikers' rights during a press conference to promote a bicycle parade in Taipei City tomorrow, which is Earth Day. PHOTO: CNA

Cyclist rights advocates yesterday appealed to the Ministry of Transportion and Communications to redefine the legal status of bicycles.

"The Highway Law (公路法) refers to any motored vehicle -- including cars, electric vehicles, or any other slow-moving vehicle -- that can operate on highways and in downtown areas," said Chou Sheng-shin (周聖心) event coordinator for the Thousand Mile Trail Project. "The word `motored' essentially rules out bicycles. In other words, the law does not recognize bicycles as vehicles."

Chou said it was time for transportation officials to amend the regulations, given that cycling is gathering popularity as an eco-friendly form of transportation.

She suggested the government eliminate the word `motored' in the legal definition of vehicles. In the meantime, the government should strive to establish a bike route system where cyclists can ride their bicycles safely and comfortably.

She emphasized, however, that her group was not asking the government to build additional routes to accommodate the growing demand from bikers.

Instead, they simply want them to re-arrange the lane usage on built highways or reduce the width of each lane so there will be sufficient space for bikers.

Chou added that the campaign for bikers' rights was not just about encouraging more people to drop their motor vehicles. The event also promotes a new, healthier lifestyle.

"It's a way for people to slow down and appreciate the environment they live in," she added.

To increase the appeal of bicycles, Chou's organization and other environmental groups will hold an event tomorrow, International Earth Day, where bikers will ride a 12km route -- from the old tobacco plant in Songshan to the film park on Kangting Road in Taipei.

In related news, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications announced yesterday that small-size electric scooters will be able to operate legally on the roads from June.

The scooters are usually used by senior citizens or physically challenged persons for traveling short-distances.

The government has promoted the use of small-size electric scooters for 10 years, but the ministry did not consider granting legal status to the vehicles until last year.

The new regulations, however, will not be promulgated until May.

They divide electric scooters into two categories; regular size and small size. The latter must be operated by batteries with a capacity of 1.34kw or less. The operating speed must not exceed 45kph, and the entire weight of the vehicle must be no greater than 70kg.

Licence plates must also be mounted on the electric scooters, and those driving without licence plates may face a penalty of between NT$3,600 and NT$9,000.

Operators must be 18 years of age and hold a valid licence issued by their local vehicle registration department. They must wear a helmet, purchase liability insurance and are not allowed to carry additional passengers in the vehicle.
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