Toronto police have initiated a two-week campaign to enforce traffic regulations concerning micromobility devices like e-bikes and e-scooters. The aim is to raise awareness about the rules governing these vehicles as their usage increases in the city. The police emphasized that safety on the roads is a shared responsibility, whether one is driving, cycling, using an e-bike, or walking.
During this enforcement campaign running until August 24, officers will educate road users on various infractions such as riding illegally on sidewalks, going the wrong way in cycle tracks, using e-mopeds unlawfully in cycle tracks, and parking improperly in bike lanes. The goal is to promote safe and lawful behavior on the roads and reduce collisions involving vulnerable road users.
There have been a total of 514 collisions involving micromobility devices in Toronto this year, with two fatal accidents involving e-scooters. Police highlighted that illegal parking can heighten the risk of collisions by disrupting the flow of traffic for bicycles, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
Toronto police will enforce regulations on roadways, bike lanes, cycle tracks, sidewalks, and crosswalks. While it is legal to purchase e-scooters in the city, riding them on public roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, cycle tracks, or trails is prohibited. Sgt. Murray Campbell advised that the city’s website provides information on authorized areas for micromobility device use to prevent confusion and ensure safety.
Previous similar campaigns have been conducted by Toronto police, including initiatives last summer and in November 2024. David Shellnutt, a personal injury lawyer, emphasized the importance of education over ticketing to address road usage conflicts among motorists, cyclists, e-scooter riders, and pedestrians. He has been leading educational workshops for e-bike food delivery riders in collaboration with Cycle Toronto to promote long-term societal change through knowledge dissemination.