With the increasing popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador is inviting public feedback on new road safety regulations.
Addressing reporters, Government Services Minister Mike Goosney emphasized the need for legislation to adapt to technological advancements.
Highlighting the potential risks, Goosney stated, “It is no secret that incidents may occur if we do not act promptly.”
Prior to the government’s initiative, concerned parents in Labrador west expressed their hopes for the province to implement regulations to enhance safety for users of these modes of transportation.
Jackie Granter and Kesha Morgan, parents in the region, have observed an increase in the presence of these motorized vehicles on roads but have raised concerns about the lack of safe operation and infrequent helmet usage by riders.
Granter shared an experience, saying, “You could be driving, and suddenly a scooter cuts in front of you.” Morgan also noted a lack of road sharing by riders, attributing it to insufficient safety guidance before using e-scooters.
Both parents voiced support for the government’s efforts to amend the Highway Traffic Act to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters.
Granter expressed approval of the proposed changes, stating, “I believe it’s a positive step, and I hope for swift implementation.” Granter advocated for safety training courses to educate children on road rules before permitting them to use such transportation methods, emphasizing the role of municipalities and the province in setting and enforcing rules.
Morgan suggested the implementation of a program similar to a road test, requiring users to carry a permit while operating these motorized vehicles.
Public Survey for Input Available
An online survey is accessible on engagenl.ca for individuals to provide their input on potential safety measures.
The survey seeks opinions on safety requirements such as age restrictions, helmet usage, reflective gear, educational initiatives, and other regulations. It also inquires about the necessity of a minimum operating age, locations for vehicle operation (e.g., sidewalk or road), and speed limits.
The province is accepting written feedback via email (roadsafetyfeedback@gov.nl.ca) or by traditional mail to the Government Services department.
Aiming to introduce regulatory changes in the House of Assembly in the upcoming fall session, Minister Goosney welcomed input from all individuals, emphasizing an open-door policy for suggestions and recommendations.
‘They are not toys’
A recent survey conducted by the Canadian Pediatric Society among Canadian pediatric specialists, spanning late 2025 to early 2026, revealed 10 fatalities, 12 intensive care unit admissions, and 26 hospitalizations exceeding 48 hours due to e-scooter accidents in the preceding year.
The survey highlighted head injuries as the most common type, accounting for 47% of cases.
Pamela Fuselli, president of Parachute Canada, an organization focused on preventing avoidable injuries, commented on the survey findings, echoing concerns raised by the Canadian Pediatric Society and the American Academy of Pediatrics regarding the operation of these vehicles by children under 16.
“They are not toys. Despite being enjoyable, they pose risks,” Fuselli emphasized during an interview on CBC Radio’s The St. John’s Morning Show.
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‘Exponential rise’: Canadian pediatricians document severe e-scooter injuries, deaths in children, teens
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