With warmer weather bringing more people outdoors, electric scooters and e-bikes are becoming a more common sight in the Comox Valley.
Comox Valley RCMP is reminding residents about the rules surrounding the use of e-scooters and e-bikes as local municipalities participate in an electric scooter pilot project.
Const. Brad Landers of the Comox Valley RCMP traffic unit said everyone has a role to play in keeping roads and pathways safe.
“With more people out enjoying the weather, we’re asking all road users to be patient, stay aware of their surroundings and show consideration for one another.”
E-scooters are permitted on public roads in participating communities, subject to local bylaws, and riders must be at least 16 years old.
E-bikes are also permitted on public roads in B.C. and must meet provincial requirements.
A driver’s licence and insurance are not required for e-bike riders, but minimum age restrictions apply depending on the type of bike.
Key rules for e-bikes include:
- Standard E-bikes: maximum speed of 32 km/h, minimum age of 16
- Light E-bikes: maximum speed of 25 km/h, minimum age 14
- No passengers permitted
Rules for both E-bikes and E-scooters include:
- Use designated bike lanes where available
- Ride as close as practicable to the right side of the road if no bike lane exists
- Do not ride on sidewalks or in crosswalks
- Wear a helmet
