Did you know?
According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, hospitalizations in Canada from injuries caused by electric kick-style scooters (e-scooters) jumped by 32 per cent in the last two years. In addition, recent hospitalization data from 2022-23 and 2023-24 have been a central focus of extensive media coverage throughout Canada. Many of the serious injuries have involved fractures and brain trauma, often the direct result of riders not wearing helmets!
Far from being toys, e-scooters are a form of transportation. Due to their compact wheels and narrow platform, they require significant skill to control and offer less stability than standard bikes; they can tip when going over potholes and uneven surfaces. Tragically, this lack of stability and high speed has led to a surge in children under 16 being seriously injured and, in some cases, fatally! Additionally, e-scooters can endanger vulnerable pedestrians, such as young children, older adults and people with disabilities.
E-scooters and children
We see it every day: children riding e-scooters without helmets, often with two riders doubling up on a single deck. It is critical that we recognize the severity of these potential consequences and stop treating this everyday risk as normal.
Scientifically, children under 16 are still developing the critical physical coordination, reaction times, and cognitive processing required to navigate fast-moving traffic safely. That is why provincial regulations and municipal laws strictly prohibit anyone under 16 from operating an e-scooter. Protecting growing minds and bodies means keeping kids off e-scooters until they reach the legal age.
Legally, operating an e-bike or e-scooter in Ontario requires a minimum age of 16. However, safety data reveals that children—particularly those under 16—account for a disproportionate number of e-scooter-related hospitalizations throughout the province.
E-scooters are not toys: Instance blazing speed!
Experts note that high-torque electric motors allow some e-scooters to reach speeds of 30 km/h or more almost instantly. E-scooters are serious modes of transport, not children’s toys. Because they accelerate rapidly, operating them safely—particularly in traffic—requires a high level of rider skill.
E-scooter laws in Canada
Regulations governing e-scooters, such as speed restrictions and permitted pathways, differ significantly by province, territory, and municipality. Furthermore, many jurisdictions mandate helmet use for riders under 18 and ban sidewalk riding to ensure pedestrian safety.
E-scooter requirements in Ontario
As part of Ontario’s ongoing e-scooter pilot program, authorized electric scooters must feature:
- A maximum speed of 24 km/h on a level surface.
- A maximum weight of 45 kg.
- A maximum power output of 500 watts.
- Two wheels and brakes.
- A horn or bell.
- At least one white light on front, one red light on rear and reflective material on sides.
- A maximum wheel diameter of 17 inches.
E-Scooters must not have:
- Pedals
- A seat
- A basket
To operate an e-scooter under the terms of the pilot program, a person must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Stand at all times while riding.
- Wear a bicycle helmet if under 18 years old.
Municipalities’ responsibility
Meanwhile, municipalities that choose to allow e-scooters within their community are responsible for:
- Where e-scooters may be operated (for example, on roads and bike paths, in parks and on trails).
- Where e-scooters may park.
- Whether a business permit or license is required for e-scooter companies.
- Whether insurance is required (the type and coverage).
- How people can give feedback on e-scooter use in their municipality.
- Other considerations relevant to the use of e-scooters in the municipality.
Remember, taking the time to learn and practice injury prevention costs you nothing. Failing to do so could lead to the unthinkable … the loss of your life and the lives of those you hold dear.
Safety—it starts with you.
