The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has announced it will be carrying out a safety review to evaluate the potential integration of e-scooters across British Columbia.
Beginning on 5 April 2024, the safety evaluation will run until 2028, replacing the first phase of a previous e-scooter pilot project that began in 2021, which tested the use of electric kick scooters across 13 different communities.
During the evaluation period, citizens will be able to legally use e-scooters in any community that has authorised their use, with included localities under constant review.
With the trial, the Ministry aims to gain a greater understanding of the benefits and effects of this mode of transport, as well as its potential to be integrated into local transport networks.
Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, said:E-scooters are part of an ongoing shift toward electric personal mobility that’s reducing emissions by giving people new clean and affordable options to get around.
We’re making it easier for local governments to test e-scooters on their own roads, so we can ensure future regulations represent the needs of people across the province.
The next phase of the examination will see the Ministry lead an ongoing safety evaluation with the aid of government partners, ICBC and the BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit (BCIRPU).
Dr. Ian Pike, director, BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit, said:The BCIRPU is pleased to partner with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure on this important project to evaluate e-scooter safety data relating to injuries.
This project will clarify any safety and injury concerns, advance our understanding of micromobility and determine whether e-scooters can be a viable mode of transportation on our roads.
As part of the scheme, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will be hosting outreach sessions with local governments during the next few months to provide information.
