Road Safety and Traffic Calming Measures

The Town ensures that pedestrian crossings are highly visible and safe. Road markings are regularly maintained to provide better protection for pedestrians. Urban pathways also promote active mobility in a pleasant and secure environment.

Cyclists and electric scooter users are reminded to follow all traffic signs and ride with caution. With more and more teens riding e-scooters in our municipality, it’s important to be aware of the rules set out in the Highway Safety Code.

Since July 20, 2023, a three-year pilot project has been in effect to regulate the use of personal motorized transportation devices (PMTDs), including electric scooters, self-balancing devices, and seated or three-wheeled models. These devices:

• Must be powered solely by an electric motor

• Have at least one wheel

• Cannot have a closed cabin, whether soft or rigid, transparent or opaque

✅ Usage Conditions

• Permitted only on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less

• Maximum device speed: 25 km/h

• Minimum age: 14 years old

• Wearing a helmet is mandatory

• Users must follow the same rules as cyclists, including:

  • No sidewalk riding

  • Yielding to pedestrians

🔧 Required Equipment

• Maximum weight: 36 kg (including battery)

• Wheels of at least 190 mm in diameter

• Both mechanical and electric brakes on each wheel

• Reflectors: white in the front, red in the rear and on the sides

• Lights for night use: white headlight (front) and red rear light

🚫 Prohibited

• Using headphones or a cellphone while riding

• Carrying passengers or trailers

• Riding on roads with speed limits over 50 km/h

💸 Fine

• $200 fine for any violation of the pilot project (section 633.1 of the Highway Safety Code)

For full details on required equipment and regulations, visit the SAAQ website.

School zones and the day camp drop-off area require heightened vigilance. The Town reminds residents that:

• Double parking is prohibited to ensure smooth traffic flow.
• Speed limits must be strictly observed near schools and the day camp.
• Drivers must yield to pedestrians and children on the move.

Speed limits are essential for ensuring everyone’s safety, especially near parks and school zones. The Town reminds drivers of the importance of slowing down and adjusting their driving to the urban environment to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

Mobile radar speed signs are installed at key locations to raise awareness of real-time speeds and encourage safer driving behaviour.

Stop signs are in place to ensure everyone’s safety. Drivers must come to a complete stop at every stop sign and yield to pedestrians and other vehicles when necessary. The Town reminds motorists that failing to comply with this rule will automatically result in a traffic violation.

Hampstead implements various measures to slow traffic and reduce the risk of accidents:

• Speed reduction: Certain residential areas have a 30 km/h limit to promote a safer living environment.
• Speed humps and curb extensions: These features naturally slow down vehicles and improve pedestrian visibility.
• New signage: The addition of clear road signs and pavement markings enhances driver awareness.