Photo of Neuron Mobility's e-scooters and e-bikes on launch day in Lethbridge Friday, April 8, 2022. (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

Lethbridge Police issue reminder about e-scooter riding rules

May 19, 2022 | 11:37 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) is reminding residents about the rules of riding e-scooters in the city. Neuron Mobility launched its e-scooter and e-bike program in April.

READ MORE: E-scooter and e-bike program officially launches in Lethbridge

The LPS says the modes of transport are classified as motor vehicles under both the Traffic Safety Act and Criminal Code, and the same laws apply to those riding them as they do for other motorists.

Police say the majority of riders are using the e-scooters responsibly, but officers have dealt with a number of incidents relating to e-scooter safety.

Sgt. Daniel Lomness of the Traffic Response Unit said on two occasions, e-scooter riders were struck by motor vehicles, while an Immediate Roadside Sanction Fail was issued to one operator for a drinking and driving incident, which included a hit-and-run involving a parked vehicle.

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Lomness added that “a number of e-scooter riders have been noted leaving the area of licensed establishments.” Users are reminded that they are prohibited from operating e-scooters while impaired by drugs or alcohol and can be charged accordingly.

E-scooter users must follow the basic rules of the road, which includes obeying traffic control devices. Additionally, collisions with other vehicles must be treated the same as if the rider were operating a motorcycle, car or truck.

READ MORE: Neuron Mobility expands e-scooter riding area to include North Lethbridge

With the launch of the e-scooter program, the City of Lethbridge amended a bylaw to allow the use of Neuron’s e-scooters on sidewalks. Even when traveling on the sidewalk, the e-scooters are considered motor vehicles.

READ MORE: Company “extremely pleased” with use of e-scooters in Lethbridge

Police noted that there have been no reported incidents involving the Neuron Mobility’s rental e-bikes. The e-bikes can only be operated on the street.

CANADA ROAD SAFETY WEEK

This week marks Canada Road Safety Week, which is led by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) and runs through May 23, 2022.

The theme for this year is “Safer You. Safer Me” and it highlights that the decisions drivers make not only affect them, but also their passengers, other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

More information about Canada Road Safety Week is available at the CACP website.