New class of three-wheeled vehicles hit Ontario roads

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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.