The Quebec government has extended its e-scooter pilot project to 2028, maintaining a minimum user age of 14 while introducing a new 25 km/h speed limit to reduce accident severity. According to the Transport Ministry, the extension allows for continued use on bike paths and roads with speed limits under 50 km/h, provided riders wear helmets.
New Speed Limits and Enforcement Measures
Starting July 18, e-scooters in Quebec are subject to a maximum speed of 25 km/h. Police can issue $200 fines to riders who exceed this limit. The Transport Ministry stated that these changes follow research and consultations with stakeholders, including police forces, noting that speed is a primary factor in how severe accidents become.
Montreal police (SPVM) report a steady climb in vehicle-e-scooter collisions. Records show 18 collisions in 2023, 29 in 2024, and 48 in 2025. While the SPVM notes this is a new reporting category, the data includes one fatality in 2024 and four serious injuries last year. Police attribute most of these crashes to inattention and failure to yield.
Medical Warnings on Pediatric Trauma
Doctors argue the current regulations don’t protect children. Debbie Friedman, director of the Montreal Children’s Hospital trauma centre, told CBC’s Quebec AM that the injuries she sees are “life-altering,” not simple scrapes. These include brain injuries, abdominal and facial trauma, dental trauma, fractures, and lacerations.
The hospital treated 80 e-scooter-related cases last year. Friedman reports that nearly 60% of children admitted with serious injuries were under the legal age of 14, suggesting the age restriction is not being enforced. She has called for the minimum age to be raised to 16 to match most other Canadian provinces.
The Helmet Debate: Safety vs. Compliance
While helmets are mandatory, Friedman notes they are often improperly secured. In some severe crashes, she observed helmets that were “completely cracked,” leading her to advocate for the mandatory use of full-face motocross helmets, which provide more comprehensive protection than standard helmets.
Comparing Micromobility Regulations
Advocacy groups suggest a disconnect between how different motorized devices are regulated. Magali Bebronne, director of programs at Vélo Québec, argues it is illogical that e-scooters are more accessible to youth than e-bikes, which offer better security and promote physical activity.
| Device | Min. Age (Quebec) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| E-Scooter | 14 | Helmet / 25 km/h limit |
| E-Bike | 18 (or 14 w/ license) | Varies by model |
| Moped | Varies | Driver’s License required |
Friedman has suggested the government treat e-scooters like mopeds by requiring a license, given that both share the road with cars.
Future Outlook for Road Safety
The Transport Ministry maintains that road safety is a top priority and aims for a “harmonious coexistence” between different road users. The province is currently focusing on public awareness campaigns regarding age and speed limits to curb the rising number of collisions reported by the SPVM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the speed limit for e-scooters in Quebec?
The speed limit is 25 km/h. Exceeding this can result in a $200 fine.
Who is allowed to ride e-scooters in Quebec?
Anyone aged 14 and older can use e-scooters on bike paths and roads where the speed limit is below 50 km/h.
Are helmets mandatory for e-scooter riders?
Yes, helmets are required at all times under the current pilot project rules.
Why are doctors calling for a higher age limit?
According to the Montreal Children’s Hospital, a high percentage of seriously injured riders are under 14, indicating that the current age limit is not effectively preventing youth injuries.
Do you think the 25 km/h limit is enough to keep riders safe, or should Quebec move toward a licensing system? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on urban mobility laws.
