Richmond RCMP is highlighting the rules on the road for all electronic kick scooter (e-scooter) users as the city continues to take part in the provincial scooter pilot project.
The City of Richmond is continuing in the B.C. Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project with city staff citing that e-scooters support “a low carbon mobility option” for residents, employees and community members of the city.
In response to this, Richmond RCMP is highlighting the importance of public safety and the lawful use of e-scooters in Richmond.
Active patrols and public awareness campaigns with the RCMP's Road Safety Unit will be to make sure all riders are following B.C.'s Motor Vehicle Act and local bylaws.
Provincial rules around e-scooter use include:
- Minimum 16 years of age
- Approved cycle helmet
- Single-use only: you must not carry or tow any passengers or devices.
- Use turn signals
- It is illegal to operate an e-scooter while impaired by alcohol or drugs, or while using an electronic device.
- Slow down around pedestrians: you must not travel at a faster speed than pedestrians if you are on a walkway or path, except to pass, which requires sounding a bell or horn.
Failing to follow the rules can result in penalties and fines up to $2,000.00. To learn more about e-scooter regulations visit the BC Government website.
In the City of Richmond, e-scooters are permitted to operate as follows:
- All streets with designated cycle lanes
- Local streets with a maximum speed limit of 50 km or less.
- Paved pathways designated for shared cycle use with pedestrians.
E-scooters are not permitted on sidewalks or on unpaved trails. Maximum speeds are:
- 20 km/h on roadways
- 15km/h on paved pathways shared with pedestrians.
Riders who are found not following city bylaws can be fined from $95 to $175.
Richmond RCMP is also working with the City of Richmond and ICBC for a Skills and Safety Clinic event on June 1 at Lansdowne Centre's northwest parking lot.
The event, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is for the public to learn how to ride e-scooters, and practice safe-riding habits and the legal rules around them.
For more information, about e-scooter rules in Richmond, click here.
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