Ontario Provincial Police Issue E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety Rules

The Ontario Provincial Police issued a series of safety reminders through the Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment regarding the legal operation of e-bikes and e-scooters. According to provincial law, e-bikes must feature operable pedals, a motor rated at 500 watts or less, and a maximum speed of 32 km/h. Riders must be at least 16 years old and wear approved helmets.

E-scooters are subject to a maximum speed of 24 km/h and a 500-watt motor limit. Riders must be at least 16 years old, and those under 18 are required to wear helmets. The police cautioned that modifying these vehicles to exceed these legal specifications may result in their reclassification as motor vehicles, which could lead to charges under the Highway Traffic Act.

Furthermore, the police noted that these vehicles meet the definition of a motor vehicle under the Criminal Code of Canada. Consequently, any operator found to be impaired by alcohol or drugs while using an e-bike or e-scooter faces potential criminal charges.