QUESTION: Based on the data below, FINDING / analyze the facts and compare the similarities and differences of the rules for electric scooters in 4 cities: Paris, New York, Tokyo, Missisauga (Canada). How do these similarities and differences affect the outcome of accidents involving electric scooters? Write like written report, more details and clearly.

Introduction

E-scooters and e-bikes have gained much popularity in recent years for their role in providing alternative means of transportation to urban dwellers. According to Taur (2020), one of the many reasons is that the use of these two modes is great for shorter distance travel, providing convenience to riders and complementing a city's existing transportation system. Another reason is because they're hassle-free due to their portability. Taur added that many also view e-scooters and e-bikes to be a good investment for their lower cost compared to other modes of transportation such as cars and motorcycles. A lot also love the fact that they are more environmentally friendly. Because of these benefits, many cities and countries have already started integrating these vehicles into their transportation network.

Unfortunately, in Toronto, Canada, their use has not yet been governed, since the city is still conducting further analysis on how to rightfully integrate them to the city's transportation network. As such, this report will aim to assist the city in getting valuable learnings and insights from cities around the world - specifically in Paris, France, Mississauga, Canada, New York City, USA, and Tokyo, Japan - where their use has already been governed. Regulations in these cities will be explored, taking a look at the common and unique rules and laws they have. Accident statistics will also be analyzed in these cities. Furthermore, each city's regulations and statistics will be compared with each other, drawing in some correlation, trends, learnings, and insights that could be beneficial to Toronto.

Analysis

Regulations in Paris, France

Although the rental of e-scooters is prohibited now, still the use of personally-owned scooters is allowed, with several restrictions. Firstly, the minimum age to operate an e-scooter is raised from 12 to 14 years old. The users of e-scooters riding on sidewalks will be facing a maximum of 135 EUR fine, and parking on sidewalks is illegal if it disrupts pedestrians (The Local France, 2023). Also, e-scooters are categorized as "motor land vehicles" and must be purchased with insurance guaranteeing the driver's civil liability. Speed limits typically range from 20 to 25 km/h, with a maximum allowed speed of 25 km/h. A fine of 1500 EUR can be imposed for exceeding this limit. For safety reasons, rotating on footpaths is prohibited; however, e-scooters are permitted on bike paths and roads where the maximum permitted traffic is less than 50 km/h. It is recommended for riders to wear a helmet though not mandatory, while a reflective vest is requested at night or in a poor visibility environment, and gloves. Furthermore, wearing headphones while driving is prohibited. Only one person is allowed on the e-scooter, violating the rule of having two people on an electric scooter will result in a fine of 135 EUR (Merveil, n.d.).Kindly refer to Annex A for the summary of the regulations in Paris.

Accident Statistics in Paris, France

According to the data recorded by road safety authorities, the statistics reveal concerning trends related to scooter accidents in France. In 2021, 24 fatalities were reported, with 11,256 individuals sustaining injuries. By the end of August 2022, the situation had not improved significantly, with 19 deaths recorded. It was found that in 9 out of 10 accidents, the users were not wearing helmets when operating the e-scooter (RFI, 2022).

The larger category of "motorized personal mobility devices," which includes electric scooters, gyropods, and hoverboards, is clarified by additional analysis from the Paris police prfecture. In 2022, there were 516 accidents involving these devices, resulting in 426 injuries and 3 fatalities. Comparatively, in 2021, 402 accidents were reported, leading to 263 injuries and 1 death. These figures highlight how urgently improved safety protocols and rules about the usage of motorized personal mobility devices are needed (The Local France, 2023). Kindly refer to Annex B for the summary of the accident statistics in Paris.

Regulations in Mississauga, Canada

Mississauga has implemented specific guidelines governing the use of e-scooter within the city. According to its regulations, e-scooters are permitted on designated bike lanes, multi-use trails and public roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or below (City of Mississauga, 2023). To further ensure the safety of pedestrians, it is prohibited to use e-scooter on sidewalks, except when crossing them. Other city-owned lands, such as city parks and transit hubs are also off-limits for e-scooter use (City of Mississauga, 2021).

Additionally, e-scooter users must adhere to a set of general rules and etiquette. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-scooters, under a maximum speed limit of 24 km/h (Noori, 2023). Riders under the age of 18 are required to wear helmets, although all users are strongly encouraged to do so. As e-scooters are designed for single riders only, users should refrain from towing objects or individuals behind the vehicle (Ministry of Transportation, 2022). Proper parking etiquette is also emphasized, urging riders to leave the e-scooters upright in designated areas.

Furthermore, Riders should follow the pre-existing traffic norms and guidelines. This includes riding in the same direction as the traffic, using appropriate signals for turns and lane changes, and being aware of surrounding conditions, especially at intersections. E-scooter users have to follow specific regulations when traveling on MiWay, Mississauga's transit authority. While the vehicle is permitted on buses, riders must ensure that the e-scooter does not interfere with other passengers. At transit terminals and stops, users are required to dismount and turn off the vehicle (City of Mississauga, 2021). Kindly refer to Annex C for the summary of the regulations in Mississauga.

Accident Statistics in Canada

Canada, like many other regions, has seen a rise in e-scooter-related injuries. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (2022), there were 523 reported cases between January 2021 and December 2019. The study revealed 62.7% of patients are male, with 34.3% being 10 to 14 years old. Falls emerged as the primary cause of injuries, consisting of 56.0%. Among the injuries, fractures and dislocations were the most prevalent, with a total of 36.9%. Injuries to the head, face, and mouth areas also accounted for 25.2% of the accidents. The severity of injuries led to a staggering 63.7% of those injured seeking treatment or observation in the emergency department.

The numbers gradually increase to an overall injury rate of 1 injury per 1,500 rides, which contributes to 3.6% of emergency room traumas during the summer . First-time users are particularly vulnerable, as one-third of injuries occur during their first rides. 63% of e-scooter injuries happen with users who have ridden less than nine times. The lack of helmet is a notable risk factor, with less than 1% of injured riders wearing protective headgear. Alcohol also plays a role in the injuries, contributing to 26.5% of all e-scooter accidents (Ortiz, 2024). Kindly refer to Annex D for the accident statistics in Canada.

Regulations in New York City, USA

Electric scooters are gaining increasing popularity in New York City. With the recent permission granted for electric scooters in the city, it is crucial for riders to familiarize themselves with the different regulations pertaining to these vehicles. In New York City, only individuals aged 16 and above are allowed to ride electric scooters. If you are under 18, it is mandatory to wear a helmet while operating the scooter. Fortunately, there is no need to register or insure your electric scooter. Additionally, it is important to note that electric scooters can only be ridden on bike lanes or roads with speed limits below 30 mph. Lastly, riders of electric scooters must adhere to all standard traffic laws in New York City.

Before 2020, the use of electric scooters was prohibited in New York City. Due to the city's notorious traffic congestion, electric scooters were deemed unfit for navigating through the flow of vehicles, posing potential risks to both riders and pedestrians. However, as the popularity of these devices increased, New York City had no choice but to align itself with the stance on electric scooters in 2020 (Carrion Accident & Injury Attorneys, 2023).

Riders operating electric scooters in New York City who are under the age of 18 must wear helmets, however, it is still highly recommended for riders over the age of 18 to wear helmets as well. Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, are frequently seen in electric scooter riders who are involved in accidents with cars.

Despite the fact that electric scooters are not classified as motor vehicles like cars, trucks, and motorcycles, it is imperative to acknowledge and abide by traffic laws. In New York City, riders of electric scooters are required to comply with all standard traffic regulations while operating their devices.

The traffic regulations that are applicable to drivers, motorcyclists, and bicyclists also extend to electric scooter riders in New York City. It is important for people to adhere to the designated speed limit when operating their device within a car lane. Furthermore, similar to motorcyclists, electric scooter riders are prohibited from engaging in lane splitting activities within the city limits.

Accident Statistics in New York City, USA

Electric bicycles and electric scooters provide a secure and eco-friendly mode of transportation. The rise of electric scooters as a new transportation option has led to a noticeable uptick in accidents and injuries in New York City.

According to reports, there have been 680 individuals who sustained injuries in scooter-related accidents in New York City this year, which is a 16% rise from the 588 reported last year. It is worth noting that in numerous instances, the injured party was not the individual operating the scooter, but rather a pedestrian. (Krauth, 2022).

According to data from the Department of Transportation, there were 21 fatalities involving various types of motorized two-wheeled vehicles, such as electric scooters without pedals, standing-powered scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, Segways, and other emerging mobility devices in 2022. Additionally, as of July 4, 2023, there have been six more deaths related to these vehicles (Simko-Bednarski, 2023).

Based on the findings of Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek P.C., several factors contribute to E-scooter accidents in New York City. These include disregarding traffic regulations, ignoring street signs or traffic signals, failing to give way to other vehicles, operating under the influence of substances, lack of experience among drivers, distracted driving, and improper lane positioning. Due to their compact size and agility, E-scooter riders tend to engage in risky behavior by weaving through traffic. Moreover, the diminutive size of e-scooters and riders can make them less visible to other motorists.

Regulations in Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo and in other cities in Japan, since e-scooters fall under the category of motorized vehicles,the rider must hold a driver's license and wear a helmet. However, the classification of e-scooters have changed and become specified small motorized vehicles(Japan Dev, 2024). With the change in e-scooter classification also came revisions in regulations.

Effective July 2023, e-scooter riders are no longer required to have a driver's license in order to operate one (Japan Living Guide, 2024). Moreover, helmet use is now just encouraged and no longer obligatory. Only riders aged 16 years old and above could operate an e-scooter, and the maximum allowable speed is 20 kilometers per hour. Another requirement that is mandatory in Tokyo and Japan is the installation of green lights indicating maximum speed. Furthermore, riders could drive e-scooters in roadways and bicycle paths. They could also use them in sidewalks provided that their speed is at a maximum of 6 kilometers per hour and flashing lights must be on (Jiji Press, 2023).

According to the Japan Living Guide (2024), number license plates and liability insurance remain mandatory. The former is a unique regulation in Japan, as people wanting to use e-scooters would first have to register their vehicle to the government agency in order to get their license plate. E-scooter rental is allowed in Tokyo. What is worth-noting about e-scooter rental operators is that they impose stricter rules and measures to renters to maintain order and lessen risk of accidents. Based on the website of Luup (2003), which is the biggest e-scooter rental operator in Japan, renters need to return the e-scooter in a designated port/parking zone, and they cannot just leave it anywhere or else they'll have to pay more. Renters must also pass the test on traffic rules and be able to verify their age before they are able to use an e-scooter. According to The Japan Times, BRJ, which also operates e-scooter rentals, ceases their operations by midnight to prevent issues concerning drunk driving (The Japan Times, 2023).

According to The Japan Times (2023), in terms of e-scooter use in Tokyo and in Japan, any violations of the above-mentioned regulations in addition to illegal parking, double riding, intoxicated driving, and other traffic rules will be subject to fines, and those who commit them often will be necessitated to participate in lectures conducted by the National Public Safety Commission. While no records of the value of fines could be found in secondary sources, it is best that e-scooter riders in Tokyo operate their devices with high regard to the rules and regulations to prevent any accidents and other repercussions. Kindly refer to Annex G for the summary of the regulations in Tokyo.

Accident Statistics in Tokyo, Japan

In the last four years, from 2020 to 2023, Japan has recorded a total of 159 accidents - 4 in 2020, 29 in 2021, 41 in 2022, and 85 in 2023 - a total of 162 injuries - 5 in 2020, 30 in 2021, 41 in 2022, and 86 in 2023 - and only 1 death, which happened in 2022 (Yoshida, 2023; Inoue, 2024; Itakura, 2024). More than half of the total accidents was recorded in 2023 due to the loosening of regulations. Majority of the cases reported involved crashes with other vehicles. The only death recorded was due to drunk driving, and the rider was not wearing a helmet. Tokyo had the highest number of cases recorded with 120 accidents, covering 75% of the total number of accidents in the country. There were also 40 cases recorded of drunk driving in Tokyo from 2021 to September 2022 (Kyodo News, 2022). Kindly refer to Annex H for the summary of the accident statistics in Tokyo.

Findings / Analysis of Facts

Trends

Cities all over the world are struggling to adopt policies and laws regarding e-scooters because of the increase in popularity and the safety concerns that go along with this issue.

After a shocking number of incidents, Paris decided to take urgent lawful action and banned rental e-scooters starting in September 2023 to reduce the risks involved with their use (Designboom, n.d.). On the other hand,Tokyo's decision to relax rules the year before had unforeseen repercussions that led to a substantial rise in accidents in 2023. Previously, having a driver's license was necessary for operating an e-scooter; however, following the change in legislation, some of them are now exempt from this requirement(Japan Living Guide, 2024). The popularity of free-floating e-scooters in New York is expanding, these e-scooters are thought to be convenient and environmentally friendly thus safety is always the top priority. In order to address this, UL 2272 certification is required for all e-scooters, to ensure a minimum safety threshold (Cohen, 2023). Similar to this, Mississauga, Canada, has permitted the use of e-scooters on public roads, bike lanes, and walkways due to the flourishing city dynamic. In addition, the city is preparing to introduce a shared e-scooter system this year (City of Mississauga, 2023). All things considered, the popularity of free-floating e-scooters for travel highlights the necessity of thorough regulatory frameworks that strike a compromise between ease of use and public safety issues.

Conclusion

E-scooters have significantly transformed urban transportation, providing city residents with convenience and flexibility. Their introduction as a modern mode of travel has impacted daily schedules by offering efficient connections for short distances and decreasing dependence on traditional transportation methods. Nevertheless, the incorporation of e-scooters into city environments requires a conscientious approach from riders and authorities. Citizens should follow municipal guidelines regarding e-scooter use, showing consideration for pedestrians and traffic regulations to uphold safety for all road users. Moreover, staying alert and careful is crucial, given the accidents linked to e-scooter usage that underscore the necessity of proper education, protective equipment, and mindfulness when navigating busy city streets. As e-scooters become more widespread, promoting a culture of responsible riding and adherence to regulations will be vital in maximizing their advantages while minimizing potential hazards.

Moreover, e-scooters provide environmental benefits by reducing carbon emissions and easing traffic congestion in cities. They offer a sustainable option to gas-powered vehicles, promoting eco-friendly transportation and a greener future. To fully benefit from e-scooters, cities need to improve infrastructure with designated lanes, charging stations, and maintenance programs. By embracing innovation and collaboration, urban communities can maximize the positive impact of e-scooters on residents and the environment.