Police say crashes involving electric kick-scooters are increasing

As reports of collisions increase, officers with the South Porcupine Ontario Provincial Police are reminding residents to abide by the law and use caution when riding on an electric kick-scooter. (File)

As reports of collisions increase, officers with the South Porcupine Ontario Provincial Police are reminding residents to abide by the law and use caution when riding on an electric kick-scooter.

Municipalities regulate the use of the scooters under a pilot project that started in 2019 and has been extended to 2029. Use of scooters are only permitted if it’s done in accordance with provincial rules and if their use is permitted through a municipal bylaw.

“A report from the OPP Regional Operational Analyst Program shows that motor vehicle collisions involving electric kick-scooters are on the rise,” police said in a July 3 news release.

“Across the province, within OPP jurisdiction, there were 54 reported collisions between Jan. 1, 2023, and July 2, 2026. There was a 17 per cent increase from 2023 to 2024 and a 43 per cent increase from 2024 to 2025.”

Most collisions happen after July 2

There were 12 in all of 23, 14 in 2024 and 20 in 2025. So far in 2026, there have been eight, but that number is expected to spike soon.

“Notably, 60 per cent of the 2025 collisions occurred after July 2,” the OPP said.

One person was killed in an electric scooter in 2024, two in 2025 and one so far this year. About 60 per cent of the crashes result in injuries and one-third cause property damage.

“If a municipality has not opted into the pilot project under the Highway Traffic Act and does not have a bylaw permitting the use of electric kick-scooters, their use on a highway, sidewalk, trail, path, walkway, public park or exhibition ground is prohibited,” police said.

In communities where the scooters are permitted, riders generally must be at least 16 years old. Anyone under 18 must wear a helmet and passengers are not permitted.

No passengers allowed

“No person operating an electric kick-scooter shall tow another person, vehicle or device,” police said.

“No person operating an electric kick-scooter shall attach himself or herself to another electric kick-scooter, vehicle or device for the purpose of being drawn or towed.”

You also have to stand while riding and you can’t carry cargo or leave it on the street.

“There are also rules pertaining to equipment such as wheel diameter, weight, maximum speed, lamps, bell and braking system,” police said.

“Safety on our roadways remains one of the OPP’s top priorities.”