An expert panel has recommended that the Ontario government refine its definition of e-bikes to enhance safety and reduce fatal accidents. The suggestion is part of a report on e-bike fatalities in Ontario, produced by the office of the chief coroner and various stakeholders.
The review, initiated in 2021 by the Ottawa Fatal Collision Review Committee, highlighted five recent local deaths involving e-bike riders. These incidents shared common traits, such as the e-bikes being modified for higher speeds beyond legal limits, resembling motorcycles rather than pedal-assisted bicycles. Moreover, several riders had suspended licenses or were using e-bikes as unregistered substitutes for licensed vehicles, with some having drugs in their systems at the time of the accidents.
Under current regulations, e-bikes in Ontario are restricted to a maximum speed of 32 km/h and a weight limit of 120 kilograms. The report proposes reducing the weight limit to 55 kilograms and considering a separate classification for larger, motorcycle-style e-bikes that may require licensing and insurance. It also stresses the importance of comprehensive and consistent data collection on e-bike injuries and fatalities.
Despite the safety concerns, e-bikes offer environmental and mobility advantages. Dr. Louise McNaughton-Filion, the regional supervising coroner for eastern Ontario, emphasized the need to ensure both safety and accessibility for e-bike users with various health conditions. While the report has been made public, government agencies are reviewing the recommendations for potential regulatory updates.