The Ultimate Guide to E-Scooter and E-Bike Safety in Vancouver: Tips for Riding Safely and Securely

E-bikes that do not meet these specifications may be considered illegal for use on public roads, or they might require a license, registration, and insurance. It’s vital to ensure that your e-bike complies with these regulations to avoid legal issues.

Riding Your E-Bike Safely
E-bike riders must follow the same general road rules as other drivers, including obeying traffic signs and lights and yielding to pedestrians. Additionally, several specific rules apply to cyclists, including those on e-bikes:

• Wear a Safety Helmet: Always wear an approved safety helmet when riding an e-bike. It’s not just a recommendation; it’s the law.
• Stay to the Right: Ride as far to the right as practicable unless directed otherwise by a traffic control device. Riding on sidewalks is generally prohibited unless a sign allows it.
• Ride Single File: You must not ride beside another cyclist or e-bike rider, except when passing.
• Use Hand Signals: Signal your intentions to turn, slow down, or stop using standard hand signals. This practice helps communicate with other road users and prevents accidents.
• Use Lights and Reflectors at Night: Between sunset and sunrise, your e-bike must be equipped with a white front light, a red rear light, and a red rear reflector.
• Do Not Ride While Impaired or Distracted: It’s illegal to operate an e-bike while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or while using a cellphone or other electronic device.
• Follow Passenger Rules: E-bikes are typically designed for a single rider. You cannot carry a passenger unless your bike is specifically built and equipped for it. Riders under 16 are prohibited from carrying any passengers.

These rules are not optional; they are enforceable by law. Failing to adhere to them can result in fines starting at $109, potential impoundment of your device, or even penalties up to $2,000.

Road Rules for Electric Kick Scooters

Electric kick scooters have their own set of regulations in Vancouver:

• Speed Limits: On roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less, you must use a designated cycling lane if available, or stay as far right as practicable. On roads with speed limits above 50 km/h, you can only use a kick scooter in a designated cycling lane.
• Signs and Signals: Always obey signs and traffic control devices that indicate where electric kick scooters can be used.
• Safety Rules:
  • Minimum Age: Riders must be at least 16 years old. Parents or guardians cannot permit anyone under this age to use an electric kick scooter.
  • Helmet Requirement: An approved safety helmet is mandatory.
  • Sidewalk and Crosswalk Use: Riding on sidewalks or in crosswalks is generally prohibited unless explicitly allowed by a sign or traffic control device.
  • Use of Bell or Horn: Always use a bell or horn when approaching or passing pedestrians, cyclists, or other devices.
  • Single Use: Electric kick scooters are designed for single riders only; you cannot carry passengers, tow devices, or ride beside another scooter.
  • Turn Signals: Indicate turns using standard hand signals or built-in lighted signals if your device has them.
  • “Hook” Left Turns: To turn left, cross the intersection and stop, turning 90 degrees before proceeding. If unsafe, dismount and walk through the intersection.
  • No Impaired or Distracted Riding: Operating an electric kick scooter while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or while distracted by a cellphone is illegal.

As with e-bikes, non-compliance with these regulations can result in fines of $109, impoundment of the scooter, or other penalties up to $2,000.

Get Familiar with the Rules Through Events
To help riders better understand and follow these rules, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), in partnership with ProMechBC, organizes events designed to educate e-bike and e-scooter riders about local laws and safety practices. Participating in these events can enhance your knowledge and make your riding experience safer. Learn more here.