Aug 01, 2024 in News Legal News

Legal News: E-Bike Laws in Ontario: Everything You Need Know

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Electric bicycles, or “e-bikes,” are bicycles equipped with a battery-powered electric motor that assists with pedalling, providing extra power to the wheels. E-bikes have surged in popularity across Canada, with nearly 100,000 e-bikes sold every year.

They are used for everything from scenic rides and city commutes to food deliveries and couriers.

That said, the rapid increase in e-bike usage has created some confusion for drivers, riders, and pedestrians who may be unsure of e-bike laws in Ontario.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Ontario e-bike laws, and essential information for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike. Plus, we’ll tell you why you need to get in touch with a bike accident lawyer if you are involved in an accident.

What Is Classified as an E-Bike?

In Ontario an e-bike, or electric bicycle, is defined as a bicycle equipped with an electric motor and includes:

 
• Handlebars for steering
• Functional pedals
• Two or three wheels
• An electronic motor
• A braking system

E-Bike Laws in Ontario: Technical Regulations

To legally ride an e-bike in Ontario, your e-bike must adhere to the following technical regulations:

 
• It must not exceed an assisted speed of 32 km/h.
• The combined weight of the bike and battery should be no more than 120 kg.
• The electric motor must have a maximum power output of 500 watts.
• Modifications to the motor that allow it to surpass 500 watts or exceed an assisted speed of 32 km/h are prohibited.
• The battery and motor must be securely attached to the bike frame to prevent movement during operation.
• All electrical terminals need to be properly insulated.
• The wheels should have a minimum width of 35 mm and a minimum diameter of 350 mm.
• The e-bike must be equipped with two independent braking systems, each applying force to a wheel. These brakes must be able to bring the e-bike to a complete stop from 30 km/h within 9 metres on a flat asphalt surface.

Keep in mind that removing the pedals transforms your e-bike into a motor vehicle, necessitating a licence, insurance, and registration. Additionally, enhancing the motor's power or the bike's assisted speed is against the law.

Have You Been Hurt in an E-Bike Accident? You need to do these 6 things as soon as possible! What to Do After An E-Bike Accident in Ontario

Who Can Ride E-Bikes in Ontario?

To ride an e-bike in Ontario, you need to:

 
• Be at least 16 years old
• Wear a certified bicycle or motorcycle helmet
• Ensure your e-bike is well-maintained
• Obey the same traffic laws as other cyclists

Where Are You Allowed to Ride E-Bikes in Ontario?

You are permitted to ride your e-bike on most roads and highways in Ontario where traditional (non-electric) bicycles are allowed, with some notable exceptions.

Ontario’s e-bike laws do not allow them on:

 
• Certain provincial controlled access highways, including the 400 series highways, the Queen Elizabeth Way, the Queensway in Ottawa, and the Kitchener-Waterloo Expressway
• Municipal roads and sidewalks where bicycles are restricted by local bylaws
• Bike paths, bike trails, and bike lanes where e-bikes are specifically prohibited

E-Bike Helmet Laws in Ontario

It is mandatory for all e-bike riders in Ontario to wear a helmet

If you are riding an e-bike, you must wear either a certified bicycle helmet or a motorcycle helmet, regardless of your age. This rule is strictly enforced to ensure your safety on the road. Failure to comply with this law can result in fines and an increased risk of injury in the event of an accident.

If you’re unsure which helmet to choose, there are some simple pointers to help you find the right one. Look for a helmet that fits comfortably and meets safety standards. Inside each helmet, there are stickers that indicate compliance with the standards laid down by theHighway Traffic Act

Are E-Bikes Street Legal in Ontario?

Yes, if your e-bike complies with the regulations laid down (see above), you can ride it on the street. However, not that municipalities can lay down by-laws on where e-bikes can be ridden. For example, here’s where you can ride an e-bike in Toronto

Do You Need Insurance For An E-Bike?

You do not need insurance, a driver’s licence, vehicle permit, or licence plate to ride and own an e-bike. However, riders must meet the following requirements: be at least 16 years old, wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet, and maintain the e-bike in good working order.

What’s the Difference Between E-Bikes and E-Scooters Under Ontario Law?

E-scooters are not classified as e-bikes.

According to Ontario law, an electric kick-scooter (e-scooter) is defined as a vehicle with two wheels (one at the front and one at the back), a platform to stand on, a handlebar for steering, an electric motor not exceeding 500 watts, and a maximum speed of 24 km/h on a level surface.

E-scooters have a blanket ban on their across the province. However, Ontario is trialling a pilot program that allows municipalities to decide whether they can be ridden on their roads.

For instance, while electric scooters are currently banned in Toronto, they are permitted in Durham (until the pilot program expires).

Importance of Getting in Touch With Bike Accident Lawyers

In the unfortunate event you have an accident involving an e-bike, you need to speak to knowledgeable personal injury lawyers. Though e-bike users are not required to carry insurance, that does not mean they are absolved of liability for accidents.

Experienced lawyers for personal injury can help you navigate the claim, ensuring that you receive compensation for your injuries.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an e-bike accident, reach out to our personal injury lawyer firm. We represent clients in all types of bicycling and e-bike accidents across both sides of the table.

Book a free consultation today.