Electric Kick Scooter Safety and Rules: A Comprehensive Guide for Pilot Communities
Electric kick scooters have gained popularity as convenient and eco-friendly modes of transportation. However, it’s important to understand the safety guidelines and rules associated with their use, especially in pilot communities. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with the necessary information to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with electric kick scooters.
About Electric Kick Scooters
An electric kick scooter is a regulated motorized personal mobility device characterized by:
- Up to four wheels are placed along a longitudinal axis, with one to two wheels at the front and one to two wheels at the rear.
- A platform for standing along the longitudinal axis, positioned between the front and rear wheels.
- One or more electric motors are powered solely by electric batteries.
- A steering handlebar that directly controls the front wheels of the device.
Speed Limit and Motor Specifications
To comply with regulations, an electric kick scooter must adhere to the following specifications:
- The motor(s) should not have a continuous power output rating exceeding 500 W.
- The maximum speed the electric kick scooter can reach on a clean, paved, and level surface should not exceed 24 km/h.
- The motor(s) must immediately stop propelling the scooter forward when the accelerator is released or the brakes are applied.
Equipment Requirements
For safety reasons, an electric kick scooter must be equipped with the following:
- A braking system that meets the minimum requirements outlined in the regulation.
- Wheels with a diameter not exceeding 430mm.
- A bell or horn to alert pedestrians and other road users.
- A white or amber light on the front of the device if operated between sunset and sunrise. If the scooter lacks a built-in light, the operator may carry or wear a light during operation.
- The electric kick scooter should not have a seat, pedals, or any structures that could be used as a seat.
Where Can I Ride an Electric Kick Scooter?
In pilot communities participating in the project, you are allowed to ride an electric kick scooter on the road. However, it is crucial to adhere to road and safety rules, as well as the bylaws specific to your pilot community.
The following communities currently allow electric kick scooter use:
- City of Coquitlam
- City of Kelowna
- City of North Vancouver
- City of Richmond
- City of Vancouver
- City of Vernon
- District of North Vancouver
- Town of Oliver
- Town of Osoyoos (bylaw currently under review)
The following communities are also part of the pilot project but have not enacted specific bylaws yet:
- District of West Vancouver
- Township of Langley
- City of Nanaimo|
Pilot Community Designated Street and Highway Use
The designated use of streets and highways for electric kick scooters in pilot communities depends on the speed limit:
- If the speed limit is 50 km/h or less, use the designated cycling lanes. If there are no designated lanes, ride as close as possible to the right side of the street.
- If the speed limit is higher than 50 km/h, electric kick scooters are only permitted in designated cycle lanes on streets or highways with a speed limit exceeding 50 km/h.
Sidewalk use is generally prohibited unless a traffic control device permits it, and the pilot community’s bylaw allows such operation. Municipal parks and lands have their own bylaws governing electric kick scooter use, so be sure to check the regulations specific to your community.
Getting Started
Before operating your electric kick scooter, familiarize yourself with the user manual. It is essential to understand the scooter’s features, controls, and safety instructions. For beginners, we recommend practicing in a controlled environment away from vehicles, obstacles, and other road users. Prior to every ride, test the brakes and lights to ensure they are functioning properly.
Safety Tips
To ensure a safe riding experience, follow these essential safety tips:
- Know the rules: Stay informed about the regulations and rules specific to your pilot community. It is your responsibility to be aware of and follow them.
- Wear a helmet: Always wear a helmet while riding an electric kick scooter. It is a mandatory requirement for your safety.
- Practice in a controlled environment: Similar to learning to ride a bike, it takes time and practice to become comfortable with balancing and controlling an electric kick scooter. Start in a safe and controlled area.
- Respect your environment and others: Pay attention to potential hazards on the road and be considerate of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Electric Kick Scooter Rules
Here are the key user requirements and rules for operating an electric kick scooter in pilot communities:
- Minimum age requirement: You must be 16 years or older to ride an electric kick scooter.
- Helmet usage: Always wear a helmet while riding.
- No driver’s license required: You do not need a driver’s license to operate an electric kick scooter.
- No alcohol or drugs: It is illegal to ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- No passengers allowed: Riding alone is mandatory. Towing or being towed by another person, vehicle, cycle, or device is prohibited.
- Ride single file: Do not ride alongside another person operating a cycle or electric kick scooter on the roadway.
- Be visible: Use lights on your electric kick scooter between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise. Wearing a reflective vest or adding reflective tape to your scooter increases visibility.
- Hand signals: Use hand signals to indicate turns if your scooter is not equipped with built-in lights for signaling.
- Parking: Only park your electric kick scooter in designated areas as specified by the pilot community. Do not obstruct traffic flow.
- Maintain your electric kick scooter: Regularly inspect and maintain your scooter, including the steering handlebar, brakes, tires, and lights, to ensure it is in good working order.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
To enhance safety and prevent accidents, follow these additional recommendations:
- Avoid using electronic devices, including headphones, while operating your electric kick scooter to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Show consideration to pedestrians by sounding the bell or horn attached to your scooter when passing them.
- Be cautious at intersections, when turning, and when crossing crosswalks, as these areas may present potential hazards such as vehicles or slippery terrain.
For specific information regarding electric kick scooter regulations in your community, we recommend contacting your local government authorities.
By adhering to the safety guidelines and rules outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while using electric kick scooters in pilot communities. Stay informed, be responsible, and prioritize safety at all times.
