Safe rides start with smart choices: e-bike and e-scooter safety in Durham Region

Collisions involving e-bike and e-scooter riders have nearly doubled in Durham Region over the past two years, rising from 26 collisions resulting in injury or death in 2023 to 43 in 2025.  

“Every serious injury or fatality is preventable,” according to Cynthia Rogers, Public Health Nurse, Durham Region Health Department. “Riders need to understand the rules of the road when operating these vehicles. Staying alert and riding for the conditions can save lives.”  

Know the rules before you ride 

As more residents choose these modes of transportation for commuting and recreation, understanding the risks is becoming increasingly important. 

• Riders must be 16 years of age or older to operate an e-bike or e-scooter.  
• Helmets are mandatory for e-scooter riders under the age of 18.  
• E-bikes and e-scooters can be ridden on Regional roads with a posted speed limit of up to 60 kilometres per hour.  
• In Durham Region you cannot ride an e-bike or e-scooter on a sidewalk. 
• Riders must stay within a bike lane. If bike lanes do not exist, riders are permitted to operate as close as possible to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway or within the paved shoulder.   

 “Many of the collisions we see involve preventable risk factors,” said Amanda Spencer, Senior Project Manager, Traffic Safety & Operation. “Understanding the rules, wearing a helmet, controlling speed, and paying attention to road conditions can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.”  

Common factors contributing to collisions include speed, riding on uneven ground and experience riding. 

Put safety first 

Whether riding an e-bike or e-scooter, simple safety measures can help reduce the risk of injury and death. 

• Wear a properly fitted helmet.  
• Follow traffic laws and local bylaws.  
• Watch for gravel, debris, potholes and other hazards.  
• Ride at a safe speed and stay in control.  
• Avoid distractions.  
• Use lights and reflective gear when visibility is reduced.  
• Slow down during wet or poor weather conditions.  

Safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers should be aware of vulnerable road users, while riders must obey the rules of the road, remain visible and ride responsibly.

“As e-bikes and e-scooters become more common, awareness and compliance with the rules are essential," said Amanda. "Drivers need to watch for riders, and riders need to understand the rules of the road, stay alert and make safe choices every time they ride."    

Safe Rides Start with Smart Choices. To learn more about e-mobility in Durham Region check out durham.ca/e-mobility.