Are Electric Scooters Allowed on BC Roads? What Happens if You’re involved in an Accident on Your E-scooter?

Are Electric Scooters Allowed on BC Roads? 

It is illegal to use an electric kick scooter on a BC road or highway unless it is in a community participating in BC’s Electric kick scooter pilot project. In participating pilot communities (which include Vancouver, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver), an electric kick scooter can be operated on designated roads. E-scooter operators are not required to be licenced or have insurance but must follow BC’s Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project Regulation and any bylaws in the pilot community.

Pedal-equipped electric scooters (i.e., ones that look more like a moped or smaller, “limited speed” motorcycle) are permitted on BC roads but need a driver’s licence, registration and insurance. A BC man was recently ticketed for driving without a driver’s licence and driving without insurance when caught riding a pedal-equipped electric scooter known as a Motorino XMr. In BC, motor-assisted cycles such as e-bikes that meet certain criteria do not require a driver’s license or insurance. The man fought the charges, arguing that his e-scooter qualified as a motor-assisted cycle under the Motor Vehicle Act. The BC Court of Appeal disagreed with his argument and affirmed his convictions for driving without a driver’s licence and driving without insurance.

What Happens if You’re Involved in an Accident on Your E-scooter?

The growing popularity of e-scooters has caused an increase in scooter-related injuries.

Electric scooters leave riders particularly vulnerable to serious injury. Riders often sustain severe injuries, including bone fractures, chronic soft tissue pain, and concussions. A major collision between an e-scooter and a car or truck can cause catastrophic spinal cord injury or death. Coverage and claim eligibility in this area are complex, but it may be possible to make a personal injury claim. In fact, you may be eligible for more than one type of claim, depending on the circumstances of the accident that brought about your injuries. For example, if you are struck by a vehicle while riding an e-scooter, you may be able to bring a claim for compensation against the at-fault driver, as well as an ICBC Part 7 benefits claim. You may also have a claim against the manufacturer if the e-scooter was defective and caused your injuries.

Have you or a loved one been injured in an e-scooter accident?

If you have been injured in an accident involving an electric scooter, the best course of action is to discuss options for compensation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. The legal team at Simpson, Thomas & Associates has extensive experience handling claims arising from all types of accidents, including electric scooter accidents. Request your free consultation today to find out how to get compensation for your injuries.

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