Think your 12-year-old can ride an e-scooter? Think again, OPP says

Did you know you must be at least 16 years old to ride an electric scooter, despite what the box may say?

Provincial police are reminding riders and parents about the rules of the road surrounding e-scooters during E-scooter Awareness Week.

“Thinking of hopping on an e-scooter? Make sure you’re old enough to ride legally,” OPP stated.

Police say e-scooters are a fun and convenient way to get around, but they come with safety responsibilities, such as following traffic laws. Riders under 18 are also required to wear a helmet.

Did you know e-scooters are not allowed on sidewalks, bike paths, or highways, and can only be used on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less, and only where municipalities permit? Riders aren’t permitted to carry passengers, must keep both hands on the handlebars, and aren’t allowed to tow anything while riding.

Authorities say the speed for an e-scooter is capped at 24 km/h, and the devices must be equipped with a bell, light and reflectors.

“Parents, help us keep our streets safe by talking to your kids about responsible riding,” OPP added. “Just because the box says 12+, the law says 16.”

The City of Barrie is weighing whether to allow e-scooters on local streets, sidewalks and trails. Last month the City launched a survey to find out what residents think of the idea as part of a provincial pilot program, which would allow municipalities to choose where e-scooters may operate.