Ottawa’s children’s hospital has reported a significant surge in e-scooter-related injuries at its emergency department, coinciding with increased enforcement efforts by the police. Between July 2025 and June 2026, CHEO’s emergency department treated 93 cases of e-scooter-related injuries, a significant increase from the 34 cases seen during the same period the previous year.

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has launched a summer enforcement campaign targeting the misuse of e-scooters. Regulations governing e-scooter use are outlined in both the provincial Highway Traffic Act and city bylaws, stipulating that riders must be at least 16 years old, with those under 18 required to wear helmets.

Sgt. Josh Callaghan of the OPS’s road safety unit expressed concern over the growing number of children under 16 using e-scooters, emphasizing safety risks associated with their operation. He highlighted the need for caution, especially considering the potential dangers posed by e-scooters.

Injuries related to e-scooters at CHEO have been described as severe, with reports of traumatic incidents including traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and internal organ injuries. These injuries are likened to those seen in motor vehicle accidents rather than typical bicycle or push scooter incidents.

The Ottawa police are actively enforcing regulations, targeting violations such as speeding and unauthorized double riding. Instances of privately owned e-scooters surpassing legal speed limits have been noted, with one e-scooter recorded at 52 km/h, well above the legal limit of 24 km/h. Rental e-scooters are typically speed-regulated to comply with laws.

The enforcement campaign initiated by the OPS at the beginning of summer will persist throughout the year to ensure compliance and reduce the incidence of e-scooter-related injuries.