The rising popularity of e-scooters in the Waterloo region has led to an increase in serious collisions. Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) reported three e-scooter collisions causing serious injuries this year, up from one last year. The total number of reported e-scooter collisions in 2026 has reached 22, compared to 28 collisions in the previous year.
WRPS identified the modification of e-scooters as a significant factor contributing to these collisions. According to Staff Sgt. Scott Metcalfe, some e-scooters are being altered to exceed the speed limits set by provincial regulations in the Highway Traffic Act.
In one recent incident, a 19-year-old Kitchener man sustained serious injuries after being struck by an SUV while riding an e-scooter. A report from the Region of Waterloo in March highlighted a rise in ambulance trips involving e-scooter users, with 26 trips recorded between April and November 2025, compared to 17 trips in 2024.
In Ontario, e-scooters are required to adhere to a speed limit of 24 km/h on roads, bike lanes, and trails, and they are prohibited on controlled-access highways. Helmet use is mandatory for e-scooter riders. Some of the collisions involve individuals under 16, which is a violation of provincial regulations. Metcalfe emphasized that younger riders may lack road experience and awareness of potential hazards.
WRPS recently issued a warning to e-scooter users to obey traffic laws after a video surfaced online showing an e-scooter being ridden on the Conestoga Expressway. Metcalfe advised e-scooter riders to be vigilant, maintain visibility, establish eye contact with other road users, and follow road protocols.
Local municipalities in the Waterloo region have varying bylaws governing e-scooter operation, and users are encouraged to check their respective township or city websites for specific rules. Awareness of these regulations is crucial to ensure safe and legal e-scooter usage.