A 12-year-old is recovering following an e-scooter incident involving a vehicle.

On Wednesday, June 10, at approximately 5 p.m., North Vancouver RCMP responded to reports of a collision involving a 12‑year‑old on an e‑scooter and a vehicle in the 3100-block of Colwood Driver. Frontline officers, along with paramedics, attended the scene. It is alleged that the 12‑year‑old was riding their e‑scooter on Colwood Drive and struck a black VW Jetta. The 12‑year‑old was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Officers followed up with the 12‑year‑old’s guardian.  Several violation tickets were issued including one to the guardian for allowing a person under 16 years of age to operate an electric kick scooter.

“We are extremely thankful that no one was seriously hurt during this incident,” said Cpl. Mansoor Sahak, Media Relations Officer for North Vancouver RCMP. “Police, first responders, and medical professionals have been raising the alarm on the dangers of e‑scooters and the serious injuries they could cause, and have conducted an extensive educational campaign targeting parents and students about the rules and regulations of e‑scooters. While police continue to educate, enforcement actions have increased and we are holding parents accountable.”

Here are some common rules and regulations regarding an electric kick scooter:

• You must be 16 years old or older to ride an electric kick scooter. Parents and guardians must not allow children under the age of 16 to ride an electric kick scooter.
• You cannot ride on sidewalks or crosswalks, except if a sign or traffic control device allows for it.
• Maximum speed capability of 25 km/h on a clean, paved and level surface.
• One or more electric motors powered by batteries, with a continuous power output rating not exceeding 500 watts.
• Wear an approved safety helmet whenever riding an electric kick scooter
• A braking system that can stop the device travelling at maximum speed quickly. The motor must also stop when the accelerator is released or brakes applied.
• A bell or horn that must be sounded when passing pedestrians and other road users.
• Front and rear lights that must be turned on between sunset and sunrise (lights may also be worn by the operator).

Police note that as the weather improves and the days continue to get longer, we will start to see more mixed roadway use. It is important that everyone is aware of the rules of the road to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for all. Police say they will continue to educate and conduct enforcement to prevent tragedies from occurring.