Electric bikes and scooters under scrutiny by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation
In response to the growing popularity of alternative means of transportation such as e-bikes and e-scooters, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) has commissioned a study to document the impact of micromobility on road safety. CAA-Quebec welcomes the conclusions of this study and aims to be a strong voice for better regulation of these modes of transport.
The study examines how provincial governments regulate e-bikes and e-scooters and presents findings from Canadian and international research on the risks associated with their use. Conclusions from the study provide essential information for all road users and could guide provincial and municipal governments when the time comes for them to introduce legislation or regulations. CAA-Quebec believes it is important to clearly define what an electric bike is and that guidelines must be put in place to regulate things like where people can use e-bikes and e-scooters and the speed limits.
Higher speeds, more injuries
Although available data on safety risks related to micromobility is limited, the latest research shows that the most frequent injuries are more severe, since falls and accidents occur at higher speeds. International studies also suggest that riding on the sidewalk is a major cause of injuries related to electric scooters.
Key findings
Gaps in regulations – Many jurisdictions have not yet established road safety rules for these vehicles, such as speed limits or permitted areas of use.
Limited research on safety – Understanding of the risks associated with these devices remains incomplete.
Data deficiencies – Official data on collisions is inconsistent and often lacks essential information, such whether an e-bike or an e-scooter was involved.
Risks related to batteries and modifications – Uncertified imports of lithium-ion batteries and speed modifications may increase the risk of fire and injury.
Inconsistent regulations – Self-service e-bikes and e-scooters are often subject to stricter rules than ones people own.
Lack of public education – Safety information and advice is limited. As a leader in road safety, CAA-Quebec has already made information about e-bikes and e-scooters available on its website.
Regulations in Quebec
In general, the rules of the road that must be obeyed by users of motorized personal transport vehicles such as electric scooters are similar to those for cyclists:
Ride as close as possible to the curb or on the right side of the roadway and in the same direction as traffic
On the shoulder, ride in the same direction as traffic
Do not ride on sidewalks (except in certain special cases)
Yield to pedestrians at a pedestrian crossing
The following are prohibited under the pilot project launched by the Government of Quebec in July 2023:
Riding on a public road where the speed limit exceeds 50 km/h
Wearing headphones
Transporting passengers
Pulling a trailer
Pulling or pushing any other object or person
Using a cell phone or any other device
(Source: Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec)
À propos de CAA-Québec
CAA-Québec offre une étendue de services d’assistance dans des secteurs variés en misant sur une approche humaine. Engagée socialement, l’organisation agit au quotidien pour défendre les intérêts de ses membres. Et en respect de ses valeurs de fiabilité et de bienveillance, elle incite à une consommation responsable et à la promotion de la sécurité routière.
–30–