If used properly and in the right places, e-scooters can be a convenient way for residents and visitors aged 16 or older to move around the city. These devices can make it easier to connect to transit, travel to school or work, or complete everyday errands without a car. However, these motorized devices can be dangerous for kids under the age of 16 and can result in serious and life-altering injuries.
E-scooter injuries among Mississauga residents are increasing, including among underage riders according to the National Ambulatory Care Reporting System, 2022-2024, Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). IntelliHEALTH Ontario, Ministry of Health.
- Emergency department visits involving children aged 15 and under on e-scooters more than doubled, from 34 visits in 2023 to 72 visits in 2024.
- In 2024, underage riders accounted for approximately three out of every 10 emergency department visits involving an e-scooter.
Why e-scooters are dangerous for kids under 16
E-scooters may look easy and fun, but they are motorized vehicles that require a higher level of physical control, awareness and decision-making. Private e-scooters can travel at speeds greater than the legal limit of 24 km/h, increasing the risk of serious injury if a rider loses control or encounters unexpected hazards.
Safe operation also requires good judgement and quick decision-making skills just like driving a car; skills that are still developing in younger children.
For children under 16, non-electric scooters and bicycles are a safer choice. These activities help build balance, coordination and confidence while allowing younger riders to develop important road safety and cycling skills.
E-scooters do’s and don’ts for riders 16 years and older
If you’re riding an e-scooter, you must:
- Be 16 years or older.
- Wear a helmet (mandatory for riders aged 16 to 18).
- Obey traffic signs and signals.
- Share the road, bike lanes and trails with others.
- Check for traffic before entering intersections.
- Use a horn or bell before passing others.
- Park responsibly to keep pathways clear for others.
- Turn on your lights from sunset to sunrise and use reflectors.
Do not ride an e-scooter:
- On sidewalks.
- While racing with others.
- While carrying passengers or heavy items.
- While texting.
- Above 24 km/h.
- Where it’s restricted by signage.
If you’re 16 or older, brush up on riding safety, rules and etiquette in Mississauga.
Quotes
“Underage e-scooter riding is dangerous and illegal. We urge all parents and guardians not to allow kids under the age of 16 to ride these motorized devices for their own safety as they require quick decision-making, balance and awareness of surrounding traffic. Together, we can reduce preventable injuries and create safer streets and pathways for everyone.”– Sam Rogers, Commissioner, Transportation and Works, City of Mississauga
“As an emergency physician, I see how quickly a ride on an e-scooter can become a trip to the Emergency Department. Children are suffering serious injuries, including fractures and concussions, that may affect a child long after the crash. Many of these injuries are preventable, and parents and caregivers need to know the risks and the rules to help keep kids safe.” – Dr. Sarah McClennan, Chief and Medical Director, Emergency and Urgent Care, Trillium Health Partners
“With increasing e-scooter related preventable injuries among children and youth, we urge parents, caregivers and community partners to recognize that e-scooters are motorized vehicles and are not safe for children and youth under the age of 16 to operate. We all have a role to play in preventing injury and supporting safer transportation options for children and youth.” – Dr. Alexa Caturay, Medical Officer of Health, Public Health, Region of Peel
“Road safety is a shared responsibility, and education is one of the best ways to prevent serious injuries. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to be riding an e-scooter. We all have a role to play in helping young people understand the risks and dangers of the road. By working together, we can help prevent serious and life-altering injuries.” Marc Andrews, Deputy Chief, Peel Regional Police
