Service NL
December 9, 2016

Responding to Changes in Motor Vehicle Technology

Highway Traffic Act Amendment Permits Certain Three-Wheeled Vehicles

An amendment to the Highway Traffic Act to allow for the registration and use of certain three-wheeled vehicles on the province’s roads received second reading in the House of Assembly on December 8. The amendment establishes criteria for the vehicles’ safe operation and will require them to meet all other registration requirements for motorized vehicles in the province.

“The Highway Traffic Act is updated regularly to ensure it addresses new developments with vehicles, road construction and other conditions. Adding a classification for three-wheeled vehicles will ensure that safety is a priority as motorists take advantage of advances in automotive technology.”
- The Honourable Eddie Joyce, Minister of Service NL

There are three-wheeled motorized vehicles with steering wheels and open occupant compartments now on the market. Transport Canada has approved these vehicles for on-road use but does not classify them as automobiles. The Highway Traffic Act is being amended to allow for such vehicles to be registered for road use, as is the case in eight other provinces.

Three-wheeled vehicles will be required to meet all the same safety and licensing standards as other on-road motor vehicles. Operators will require a Class 5 drivers licence and all occupants will be required to wear a helmet. If the vehicle does not have a sufficient windshield, occupants will also have to wear a face shield, safety glasses or goggles.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government will amend the Highway Traffic Act to allow for the registration and on-road use of certain three-wheeled vehicles.
• These vehicles have steering wheels and open occupant compartments and are approved by Transport Canada for on-road use, but are not classified as automobiles.
• A new classification is being created for these vehicles under the Province’s Highway Traffic Act, as none currently exists which can include them.
• Operators will require a Class 5 Driver’s Licence and drivers and passengers will have to follow prescribed safety requirements.

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Media contact:

Gina MacArthur Media Relations Manager Service NL 709-729-4748, 730-2977 ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca

2016 12 09                              9:15 a.m.