**
A recent report from the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP) has revealed alarming statistics regarding injuries and fatalities among youth using e-scooters and e-bikes. With 48 serious cases reported from paediatricians, including 10 deaths, experts are advocating for enhanced tracking and regulation of these personal powered micromobility devices (PPMDs) to ensure the safety of young users.
Shocking Statistics on Injuries and Fatalities
The CPSP’s findings, based on data collected from paediatricians in 2025, indicate a troubling trend. Among the reported cases, 26 resulted in hospital stays exceeding two days, while 12 youths required intensive care unit admissions. Dr. Daniel Rosenfield, a key figure in the report, emphasised that these figures mark one of the first comprehensive overviews of youth fatalities associated with e-scooters and e-bikes, beyond anecdotal evidence from media reports.
“People don’t typically associate these devices with fatalities,” Dr. Rosenfield remarked. “As usage increases, as indicated by the rising number of minor to moderate injuries, it stands to reason that fatalities will also rise.” E-scooters emerged as the most frequently involved devices in these incidents.
Supporting this data, the Canadian Institute for Health Information documented 53 hospitalised injuries among youths aged 5 to 17 between 2023 and 2024, highlighting the growing concern surrounding these modes of transport.
Predominant Types of Injuries
The CPSP report identified that a staggering 47 per cent of injuries were to the head, while 40 per cent affected limbs. Dr. Rosenfield pointed out the severity of these injuries, stating, “The majority of severely injured individuals suffer from head injuries, which often result in permanent disabilities.”
Youth aged 10 to 15 accounted for 42 per cent of reported cases, with children aged 5 to 9 making up 18 per cent. The average age of those involved in incidents ranged from 10 to 12 years. This demographic data underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures targeting younger riders.
Fragmented Regulations Across Canada
The patchwork of regulations governing the use of e-scooters and e-bikes across provinces adds to the complexity of ensuring youth safety. In provinces such as Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and British Columbia, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate standard e-bikes. Meanwhile, Quebec sets the minimum age at 18, although those with a Class 6D licence can begin riding at 14.
When it comes to e-scooters, age limits vary widely. While some provinces impose a minimum age of 16, others, including Quebec and Nova Scotia, allow riders as young as 14. Alberta and Saskatchewan even prohibit e-scooters on public roads, yet local bylaws may permit their use in certain municipalities, leaving age restrictions up to local governance.
Dr. Rosenfield believes that while the current government regulations are not to blame, there is a pressing need for standardisation of rules across the country. He argues, “We need to initiate a comprehensive approach that encompasses education, enforcement, and engineering.”
Government Responses and Future Directions
In light of these troubling statistics, some provinces are beginning to take action. Nova Scotia has announced plans to ban children under 14 from riding electric bikes starting this autumn. Alberta is working on amendments to its Traffic Safety Act to enhance the safety of personal micromobility devices, and Newfoundland and Labrador is collaborating with other jurisdictions to determine effective regulatory measures.
Toronto police have also initiated a two-week enforcement campaign aimed at improving safety awareness regarding micromobility devices. With 514 reported collisions involving these vehicles in Toronto this year—two of which were fatal—the push for increased public awareness is more critical than ever.
Dr. Rosenfield stresses the importance of education, advising riders to wear helmets, avoid excessive speeds, and refrain from carrying multiple passengers on a single e-scooter. “These accidents are not just unfortunate; they are preventable,” he stated.
Why it Matters
The rising incidence of severe injuries and fatalities among youth using e-scooters and e-bikes is a clarion call for immediate and coordinated action. With the popularity of these devices showing no signs of abating, comprehensive regulatory frameworks and robust safety education initiatives are essential. Addressing these issues not only protects our youth but also shapes a safer future for all road users, ensuring that the convenience of micromobility does not come at the cost of safety.