To the government and the public,
We are a group of EUC users who have been using EUCs as our main mode of transportation in Singapore for many years. We have been following the rules and regulations set by LTA for PMD use on pavements since they were introduced. We are aware of the recent restrictions on PMD use on public places due to some unfortunate accidents involving pedestrians.
We respect the government's decision to impose these restrictions, but we also appeal to the government to consider granting a special privilege for EUC users to use on pedestrian footpaths. We believe that EUCs are different from other PMDs in terms of their design, performance, and safety.
EUCs are self-balancing wheels that require the user to balance and control them with their body movements. They are not easy to ride and require a lot of practice and skill. They are also not easy to accelerate or decelerate and have a natural speed limit. They are suitable for riding on cycling paths, shared paths, or park connectors, as they are allowed by LTA³. However, these paths are not always available or accessible for EUC users, especially in older estates where there are no dedicated cycling paths or links.
EUCs are more suitable for riding on pedestrian footpaths, as they have a small footprint and can maneuver easily around obstacles and people. They are also more similar to pedestrians than cyclists, as they move at a similar speed and direction. They do not pose a significant threat or nuisance to pedestrians, as long as they ride carefully and courteously.
We propose that the government should grant a special privilege for EUC users to use on pedestrian footpaths, subject to certain conditions and criteria. These could include:
- Passing a proficiency test to demonstrate their ability and knowledge of riding an EUC safely and responsibly.
- Registering their EUC with LTA and displaying a license plate or sticker on their EUC.
- Wearing proper protective gear such as helmet, gloves, and pads when riding their EUC.
- Following the speed limit and other rules set by LTA for PMD use on pavements.
- Alerting pedestrians of their presence and giving way to them when necessary.
- Parking their EUC in designated areas and not obstructing the footpath.
We hope that the government and the public will recognize the benefits and challenges of EUC use in a balanced and rational way. We hope that EUC use will not be discriminated against, but rather regulated and supported in a reasonable and sustainable way.
We are willing to cooperate with the government and the public to make EUC use safer and more harmonious for everyone. We pledge to be respectful and courteous to other road users and pedestrians, to follow the rules and regulations, and to wear proper protective gear when riding our EUCs.
Thank you for your attention
19/09/2023
(1) Footpath Cycling Path Road - Land Transport Authority (LTA). https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltagov/getting_around/active_mobility/rules_public_education/rules_code_of_conduct/pdf/where_devices_are_allowed_motorised_pmd_ban.pdf
(2) Home -> Getting Around -> Active Mobility -> Rules & Public Education .... https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltagov/getting_around/active_mobility/rules_public_education/rules_code_of_conduct/pdf/mtt_for_escooters_pab.pdf
(3) LTA | Rules & Code of Conduct. https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/active_mobility/rules_and_public_education/rules_and_code_of_conduct.html