A new class of three-wheeled vehicle is hitting Ontario roads and police want drivers to become aware of the rules and regulations.

Three-wheeled vehicles (TWVs) are a distinct class of motor vehicle, separate from passenger vehicles, motor tricycles and motorcycles.

Under the Ontario Ministry of Transportation ten-year pilot project, TWVs will be registered as motorcycles, but  the driver will be required to have a full ‘G’ class license or higher to operate the vehicle. Drivers with an ‘M’ class license alone are prohibited from operating a TWV under the pilot project.

Some of the other legislation regarding three-wheeled vehicles includes:

  • Only federally-approved TWVs designed for on-road use are permitted to participate in the pilot. Current approved models include: Polaris Slingshot and Campagna Motors T-Rex 8
  • Current HTA rules of the road and penalties apply to the driver/vehicle owner
  • Participants in the pilot project are subject to Ontario’s mandatory seatbelt requirements and must use an approved motorcycle safety helmet
  • Passengers who are classified as an infant, toddler or pre-school to primary grade child are not permitted to ride in a TWV
  • TWVs are prohibited from being used for an MTO road test
  • Sidecars or trailers are not permitted to be affixed to a TWV

Penalties for contravening the conditions of the pilot project are fines no less than $250 and up to $2,500, upon conviction.

-With a report from CTV Barrie's Heather Butts.