Burnaby RCMP Intensifies E-Scooter Enforcement to Prevent Accidents and Injuries
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Burnaby RCMP is increasing enforcement and educational efforts regarding e-scooter safety.
- This initiative follows a serious collision on May 2 involving two children on e-scooters.
- The RCMP aims to ensure riders understand and follow safety rules to prevent accidents.
Burnaby RCMP is intensifying its focus on e-scooter enforcement and public education to address rising accident and injury rates. The increased measures come after a significant collision on May 2, where an 11-year-old boy and a nine-year-old girl sustained serious and critical injuries after their e-scooters collided with a vehicle on Hastings Street.
Officers will be actively monitoring for violations, including underage riding, operating in prohibited zones, and failing to wear helmets. Sergeant Gary Johal of Burnaby RCMP Traffic Services emphasized the growing popularity of micro-mobility vehicles and the need for riders to adhere to regulations for their own safety and that of others.
We know micro-mobility vehicles have become increasingly popular; however, we want to make sure people are riding according to the rules, for their safety and the safety of those around them.
"We want to make sure people are riding according to the rules, for their safety and the safety of those around them," Sgt. Johal stated. He specifically urged parents to familiarize themselves with e-scooter rules, discuss them with their children, and prevent illegal use.
Burnaby has implemented restrictions on e-scooter use, requiring riders to be at least 16 years old. The city also prohibits riding on sidewalks or crosswalks, on roads with speed limits over 50 km/h (unless in a designated lane), and on arterial roads without dedicated paths. Impaired riding, using mobile devices while riding, carrying items that affect balance, and exceeding the 25 km/h speed limit are also forbidden. Riders must also adhere to visibility requirements, and carrying passengers is not permitted.
We want to especially encourage parents to familiarize themselves with the rules regarding e-scooters and e-bikes, discuss them with their children, and never allow their children to ride illegally.
Originally published by Global News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.