Information
June 2002
Frequently asked questions - Scooters
A. Foot-propelled scooters
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What age recommendations are there for foot-propelled scooters?
Health Canada recommends that foot-propelled scooters be used by children that are at least 5 years of age. Children under the age of 8 should always be supervised when riding a scooter.
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What protective gear will make riding a foot-propelled scooter safer?
A certified helmet, elbow pads and knee pads could help prevent injuries or reduce the severity of an injury. Non-certified helmets should never be used.
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What is the safest way to ride a foot-propelled scooter?
Always wear protective gear. When riding a foot-propelled scooter, keep both hands on the handle bars. Scooters should be used in areas away from traffic and parked vehicles. Never ride a scooter at night, on surfaces that are wet or uneven, or on gravel or sand. Never ride scooters on roads.
B. Motorized scooters
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What are the age recommendations for a motorized scooter?
For details on where motorized scooters can be used, and for age restrictions or recommendations, please consult your provincial/territorial Ministry of Transportation.
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Is it safe for my child to use a motorized scooter?
It is not recommended that children use motorized scooters. Transport Canada considers a motorized scooter to be a restricted-use motorcycle. Therefore, under the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations, it must bear a label indicating that the vehicle is not intended for use on public roads. For details on where motorized scooters can be used, and for age restrictions or recommendations, please consult your provincial/territorial Ministry of Transportation.
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What is a "restricted-use motorcycle"?
Restricted-use motorcycles are vehicles designed primarily for recreational use. Under the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations, they must bear a label stating that they are not intended for use on public roads. Individual provinces and territories have the authority to establish regulations concerning the use of these vehicles off-road, as well as additional safety standards, licensing and registration requirements. Information on off-road usage and requirements may be obtained from your provincial/territorial government.
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What protective gear will make riding a motorized scooter safer?
Riders of motorized scooters should wear a certified helmet. Because it is a motorized vehicle, it is subject to provincial/territorial laws. In Canada, all provinces and territories require operators of motorcycles to wear a certified motorcycle helmet.
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