More Scrutiny on the Road as “Elderly Scooter” Ban Nears
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Beijing traffic police have started stopping drivers of “elderly scooters” –老年代步车 (lǎonián dàibùchē) – ahead of a coming ban on the vehicles set to begin on Jan 1, 2024. According to Beijing Evening News, the city has also unveiled a mini-program and other means by which people can dispose of the vehicles when the time comes.
Elderly scooters scatter Beijing's streets
Laonian daibuche, which either resemble a mini car or trike, are popular among the city’s elderly residents and families because of their affordability, easy charging features, and the fact no license is required to drive one.
On the flipside, the vehicles have also become associated with poor and dangerous driving, as their drivers are known for flouting road safety and traffic rules, be it on purpose or simply by accident.
As we reported earlier this year, the city plans to ban the vehicles at the beginning of next year due to the hazards they cause on the road.
Elderly scooters zip through Sanlitunnanlu
The ban has been a long time coming, as the city first announced the impending rules in July 2021, after which there would be a "grace period" when the vehicles could still operate on public roadways until the end of 2023. Now, with 2023 halfway through, the ban is inching ever closer.
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As the end of the grace period draws near, Beijing's streets have been abuzz with traffic police routinely intercepting and penalizing elderly scooter users who flout traffic regulations. This initiative is a strategic part of the Beijing Traffic Department's efforts to enforce the impending ban on senior mobility scooters, while preserving order and safety during this transitional phase reports Beijing Daily.
Elderly scooters are a popular choice for ferrying grandchildren
In regards to disposal of the vehicles, a new mini-program has been unveiled on which drivers can sell their elderly scooters to the city. Called 电动三四轮车综合治理 Diàndòng sānsì lún chē zònghé zhìlǐ, it asks for vehicle type – two, three, or four wheeled – as well as age and condition of the vehicle. After submitting the information, drivers will receive an estimated quote and more details on where to drop off their vehicle.
The decision to ban the vehicles has sparked a wide range of reactions. A segment of netizens hailed the decision, citing the rampant traffic breaches and accidents induced by these vehicles. However, there was also a wave of apprehension about the potential impact on the elderly's mobility.
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