The Ministry of Transportation Ontario has proposed changes to the Ontario Low Speed Vehicle pilot program, O. Reg. 215/17
These changes will modify the following aspects of the pilot program.
Proposed Changes:
- Insurance requirements for LSVs – Currently, LSVs require higher insurance coverage than a passenger car. LSVs must be insured in accordance with the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act and must have a minimum of $5M in thirdparty liability insurance, $1M for non-catastrophic injuries and $2M for catastrophic injuries.
This proposal would lower the insurance requirements for LSVs to a minimum of $1M in third-party liability insurance, $65,000 for non-catastrophic injuries and $1M for catastrophic injuries. - Allow LSVs to cross an intersection with a speed limit not greater than 80 km/hr – Currently, LSVs are allowed to be driven through an intersection with a speed limit not greater than 60 km/h. This proposal would increase the intersection crossing speed to not greater than 80 km/h, where there is a traffic signal, stop sign or roundabout.
- Remove the requirement to have doors on LSVs – Currently, Ontario’s LSV pilot framework requires the LSV to have doors. This proposal would remove the requirement for LSVs to have doors.
- Remove the limit on the number of occupants allowed in an LSV – Currently, Ontario’s LSV pilot requires that the vehicle must not carry more occupants than the number of seating positions in the vehicle, or more than four occupants, whichever is less.
This proposal would remove the limit on the number of occupants allowed in an LSV as long as there are the required number of seating positions.
These changes are in line with the current standards in British Columbia, and free up most LSV Vehicles to be utilized without doors.
Haldimand County passes bylaw to approve LSVs
In addition to the proposed changes by the MTO, the single-tier rural city-status municipality of “Haldimand County” passed Low Speed Vehicle Bylaw 2246/21 this month, allowing LSV vehicles to operate under the MTO pilot program. They’re planning to acquire LSV vehicles for use as municipal vehicles, but this bylaw applies to residents, and private businesses also. Allowing anyone with the proper license and insurance to operate an LSV.
If you’re a resident or business operating in Haldimand County get in touch with us! Our LSVs are the perfect vehicle for Caledonia, Dunnville, or Hagersville. We can take you through all the custom options that we offer to customers.
