The Quebec provincial government has decided to prolong its e-scooter trial until 2028, despite concerns raised by medical professionals regarding insufficient protective measures for children. Initially launched in 2023, the original trial permitted individuals aged 14 and above to operate e-scooters on roads with speed limits under 50 km/h and on bike paths, with compulsory helmet use at all times. These regulations will remain in effect, with additional restrictions starting on July 18, including a maximum speed limit of 25 km/h for e-scooters, violation of which could lead to a $200 fine by law enforcement.
The Ministry of Transport indicated that these adjustments were made based on research findings and feedback gathered since the trial’s inception, in collaboration with stakeholders such as police forces. Emphasizing the impact of speed on accident severity, the ministry highlighted the importance of these measures in a statement to CBC. Despite these regulations, concerns persist among medical professionals like Debbie Friedman, director of the trauma center at Montreal Children’s Hospital, who has been advocating for more stringent e-scooter regulations.
Friedman expressed dismay over the significant injuries sustained by children due to e-scooter accidents, citing instances of brain injuries, fractures, and other severe traumas. The hospital has treated a growing number of e-scooter-related injuries, with 30 cases reported by mid-June this year alone, compared to a total of 80 cases treated last year. Friedman urged the government to enforce stricter rules, including raising the minimum age for e-scooter use to 16 and mandating the use of motocross helmets, while also aligning e-scooter regulations with those of mopeds, which require a license for operation in Quebec.
Magali Bebronne, from Vélo Québec, echoed concerns regarding age restrictions and safety measures for e-scooters compared to e-bikes. She highlighted the disparity in accessibility between the two modes of transport and emphasized the need for enhanced safety regulations to address public safety and concerns raised by cyclists and e-bike riders. The Transport Ministry stressed its commitment to road safety and the harmonious integration of motorized personal transportation devices with other road users, aiming to raise awareness of age and speed limit regulations.
While the government emphasizes promoting safe e-scooter use, Friedman continues to advocate for stricter measures and urges parents to acknowledge the risks associated with e-scooter use before permitting their children to ride them. Montreal police reported an increase in vehicle-e-scooter collisions since the trial’s inception, with factors such as inattention and failure to yield contributing to these incidents. Notably, there were 18 collisions in 2023, 29 in 2024, and 48 in 2025, including one fatality and numerous injuries of varying severity.
