RCMP haven’t ticketed anyone for improper e-scooter use since the launch of them for rent in Richmond – but a few e-scooter riders have ended up in the hospital.
E-scooters – also known as kick-scooters - have been allowed in Richmond for about a year, and in May, Lime Technology installed docks around city centre where residents can rent them.
According to city staff, police haven’t received any complaints about e-scooter usage nor have they had to enforce the city’s bylaws.
The city, however, has received a “few comments” about e-scooter usage, mainly about riding on sidewalks, something that is not allowed, the city staff report noted.
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) notes that e-scooter accidents are rising with the growing popularity of this mode of transportation.
Some riders have ended up in the emergency room with a few admitted into hospital, but the city notes cyclists account for 12 times more accidents than e-scooters.
The City of Richmond is taking part in a provincial pilot allowing e-scooters in the city.
Since Lime launched on Victoria Day, there have been an average of 67 trips per day using their e-scooters in Richmond with the total number of trips at 1,415.
The most popular place where they’re rented is on Hollybridge Way at Lansdowne Road.
The city doesn’t have data on privately owned e-scooter usage.
E-scooters are allowed on bike lanes, some local streets, off-street paved pathways next to roads and pathways in parks that are marked for shared use.
E-scooters aren’t allows on sidewalks or unpaved trails. and helmets are required while riding e-scooters.
Maximum permitted speeds are 20 km/h on roads and 15 km/h on shared pathways.
The report on e-scooter usage is on the agenda for city council's public works and transportation committee next week.
