The Quebec government has decided to prolong its e-scooter trial until 2028, despite concerns raised by medical professionals regarding insufficient safety measures for children. Originally launched in 2023, the pilot allowed individuals aged 14 and above to operate e-scooters on roads with speed limits below 50 km/h and on bike paths, with mandatory helmet usage. These existing regulations will remain in place, alongside new restrictions starting on July 18, such as a maximum speed limit of 25 km/h for e-scooters, with violators facing a $200 fine.
The Ministry of Transport stated that these modifications were implemented based on research findings and feedback gathered during the trial period, in collaboration with various stakeholders including law enforcement agencies. Highlighting the significant role of speed in accident severity, the ministry emphasized the importance of these changes.
Debbie Friedman, the director of the trauma center at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, emphasized the severe nature of e-scooter-related injuries, citing cases of brain trauma, fractures, and other serious conditions. She noted a concerning increase in the number of children requiring treatment following e-scooter accidents, with the hospital treating 30 cases by mid-June this year, compared to a total of 80 cases last year.
Friedman has long advocated for stricter regulations, particularly enforcing the age limit and requiring the use of motocross helmets for e-scooter riders. She urged the government to align its rules with those in other provinces, where the minimum age for e-scooter use is 16, and to treat e-scooters similarly to mopeds, which necessitate a license in Quebec.
Magali Bebronne, from Vélo Québec, echoed concerns about the age restrictions, pointing out the inconsistency with e-bike regulations. She expressed hopes that the updated rules would mitigate safety concerns and enhance enforcement measures, addressing the issue of e-scooters traveling at excessive speeds.
While the Transport Ministry emphasized prioritizing road safety and fostering a safe environment for various road users through the pilot project, Friedman stressed the need for the government to address her safety concerns promptly. She advised parents to comprehend the risks associated with e-scooters before permitting their children to use them.
Montreal police reported a rise in collisions involving vehicles and e-scooters since the pilot’s initiation, with 18 incidents in 2023, 29 in 2024, and 48 in 2025. These collisions led to one fatality in 2024, along with multiple serious and minor injuries. The police identified inattention and failure to yield as the primary contributing factors to these incidents.