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ARTICLE · 25 NOVEMBER 2024

Understanding E-Scooter Liability In Ottawa: What Riders Need To Know

Bergeron Clifford
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E-scooters have become a popular way to get around Ottawa, offering a convenient and eco-friendly option for short trips. But like any vehicle, e-scooters come with specific legal responsibilities and potential liability risks that every rider should know about.

CanadaTransport
Gavin Cosgrove
Gavin Cosgrove

E-scooters have become a popular way to get around Ottawa, offering a convenient and eco-friendly option for short trips. But like any vehicle, e-scooters come with specific legal responsibilities and potential liability risks that every rider should know about.

Ottawa's E-Scooter Rules and Regulations

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The City of Ottawa has put clear rules in place to make e-scooter use safer for everyone:

  • Age Requirement: Riders must be 16 years of age or older.
  • Helmet Use: Mandatory for riders under 18; strongly recommended for all.
  • Where to Ride: E-scooters are allowed on streets with speed limits of 50 km/h or less, bike lanes, cycle tracks, and multi-use pathways. Riding on sidewalks is prohibited, with a potential $150 fine for violations.

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