E-scooter injuries surge as Quebec pilot winds down

The Montreal Children's Hospital trauma centre is sounding an alarm about electric scooter injuries as Quebec's e-scooter pilot project approaches its end on July 20.

Last year, the hospital treated 80 children and teens for e-scooter injuries ranging from traumatic brain injuries to dental trauma, fractures and lacerations. This year alone, it has already treated 30 patients. Critically, 9 per cent of cases in prior years required hospital admission and critical care management. This year, that rate has jumped to 20 per cent.

"Close to 60 per cent of e-scooter-related injuries involve children under the age of 14, a rise from an already worrisome high proportion last year," said Debbie Friedman, the hospital's trauma director. "These injuries are often serious, life-altering and, in many cases, entirely preventable."

The hospital is urging Quebec policymakers, parents and riders to take the risks seriously. "Legislation is important, but it is not enough to prevent injuries," said Liane Fransblow, trauma coordinator of the MCH injury prevention program. "Families, youth and communities all have a role to play. Wearing a properly fitted helmet, being aware of the risks, respecting the rules of the road, and understanding and following the regulations are essential."

Quebec's pilot launched July 20, 2023, to test e-scooters on bike lanes and public roadways while assessing their integration into road traffic.