Quebec is extending its e-scooter pilot project. Doctors warn the rules leave children at risk

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The Quebec government has extended its e-scooter pilot to 2028, despite warnings from doctors who say the rules don't go far enough to protect children from serious injuries.

The original pilot, introduced in 2023, allows for anyone 14 and older to use the devices on roads where the maximum speed limit is less than 50 km/h, as well as on bike paths. Helmets are required at all times.

Those rules will still apply along with new restrictions that come into effect on July 18, including a 25 km/h speed limit for e-scooters. Exceeding that limit can result in a $200 fine by police.

The Transport Ministry says the changes were made based on research and feedback it collected since the start of the pilot, and in consultation with stakeholders, including police forces.

Debbie Friedman, the director of the Montreal Children's Hospital trauma centre, says those accidents are all too common and she's been pushing for stricter rules on e-scooter use.

“The types of injuries we’re seeing are life-altering," she added, listing brain injuries, abdominal trauma, facial trauma, dental trauma, fractures, lacerations and sprains as examples.

Friedman says the hospital has treated 30 children for injuries from e-scooter accidents so far this year, many of whom were in critical condition and admitted to intensive care. Last year, it treated a total of 80.

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The hospital has for years been calling on the government to make significant changes to its rules regarding e-scooter use, the biggest concern being the age requirement, which Friedman says isn't properly enforced.

"Close to 60 per cent of the children that we've seen with serious injuries ... Are under 14," she said.

She wants the government to move the age up to 16, in line with most other provinces where e-scooters are legal in Canada.

"I mean, we're putting them on the road with cars."

Magali Bebronne, director of programs at Vélo Québec, a bicycle advocacy group, agrees that the age restriction should be revisited.

She pointed to the rules for e-bikes, which set the minimum age at 18, or 14 with a licence.

"For us, it doesn't make sense that e-scooters and these micromobility devices are more accessible to youth than e-bikes," she said, noting e-bikes come with better security measures and with added benefits of physical activity.

Bebronne said cyclists and e-bike riders have also raised the issue of e-scooters going too fast.

"It does cause friction and concern, and people might not feel as safe sharing the path with these devices," she explained.

She hopes that the new rules will deter people from speeding, and be easier to enforce.

It added it is working to raise public awareness of the rules relating to minimum age and speed limits.

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