The adoption of e-scooters is on the rise in Canada, but along with their popularity comes a concerning increase in injuries, particularly among younger individuals. Medical professionals like Dr. Daniel Rosenfield from SickKids hospital in Toronto are witnessing a significant surge in e-scooter-related injuries, ranging from minor cuts to severe brain trauma and fatalities.
According to Rosenfield, the number of e-scooter injury cases at SickKids has been escalating, with a sharp increase from 26 cases in 2023 to 107 cases in 2025. Similarly, at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, e-scooter injuries have surged by tenfold since 2023, leading to severe facial injuries and broken bones among children.
A recent survey conducted by the Canadian Pediatric Society revealed alarming statistics, including 10 deaths, 12 ICU admissions, and 26 hospitalizations lasting more than two days due to e-scooter accidents within a year. Head injuries were prevalent in about half of these cases, with the majority of victims not wearing helmets.
The severity of these incidents is exemplified by the experience of Crystal Dunkley’s son in London, Ontario, who suffered a fractured skull and was admitted to the Pediatric Critical Care Unit after a high-speed e-scooter collision. Despite the critical condition, the boy managed to recover after more than a month of intensive care and rehabilitation.
Medical experts emphasize the need for clearer regulations on e-scooter usage, as these devices, often perceived as toys, can reach high speeds and pose significant risks, especially for younger riders. Issues with existing laws, varying across provinces and territories, contribute to the challenges in ensuring safety for riders, particularly children who may be less familiar with road rules.
Efforts are being made to address these concerns, including calls for public education, parental awareness, stricter enforcement, and improved safety measures by manufacturers. While recognizing the benefits of e-scooters in urban settings, experts stress the importance of striking a balance between their convenience and ensuring the safety of riders, especially the most vulnerable age group of 10 to 15-year-old boys who are at higher risk of severe injuries.
