Rider’s Responsibility Code and Safety Considerations

A woman rides a BCAA e-bike.

 

Before riding or allowing your teen to ride an e-bike or e-scooter, consider reviewing important safety considerations.

 

E-Bikes Help You Climb Hills, But You Still Need to Go Down Them!

Although e-bikes may enable us to easily climb up steep hills and terrain that we might otherwise not be able to ascend on a non-motorized bicycle, it's important to remember that you will still need to come down this terrain, which may be hazardous for some.

 

Can't Ride a Bike? Don't Ride a E-Bike.

It also may go without saying but is still important to note: if you do not know how to ride a regular bicycle, an e-bike will likely prove hazardous for you. It’s best to learn the basics on a non-motorized bike before transitioning to an e-bike.
 

Rider's Responsibility Code

Inspired by the Skier’s Responsibility Code, the City of North Vancouver recently passed a ‘Rider’s Responsibility Code’ motion for e-bike riders of all ages. Although this motion was passed in the City of North Vancouver, these rules really apply to any riding scenario in B.C. We recommend reviewing this code of 12 rules (& a bonus one added by HUB Cycling) before you ride an e-bike:

  1. Always be in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
  2. People on foot have the right of way, always. When many people on foot are on a multi-use-path, you may need to walk your ride, lower your speed significantly, or choose an alternate route. The sidewalk is not a place to ride.
  3. People ahead of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them, as well as people travelling in the opposite direction.
  4. Do not pass people too quickly, and give warning (bell or voice) before you pass. Some people, children, and pets may be easily startled, and people may be using headphones, so slow down when passing, and do so with extra care. Don’t assume someone understands you are behind them. Children and animals can move unpredictably, so give a wider buffer and be prepared to stop if needed.
  5. Stop only where you are visible from either direction and do not block the route for other path users. Whether you are on foot, or riding.
  6. Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
  7. Keep off sidewalks when riding bikes or other e-mobility devices, unless explicitly signed as permitted.
  8. You must use your equipment safely and maintain it in good repair. If you need assistance, ask a bike shop or expert. Do not ride until you are confident good repair is restored.
  9. Do not ride impaired by alcohol or drugs.
  10. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other, and ensure anyone injured receives care.
  11. Give people with disabilities extra space and time. Many disabilities are not visible. Some people may have limited sight or hearing and may not notice you approaching. Slow down, pass with care, and be prepared to stop if someone does not respond to your warning.
  12. Speeds should not exceed 32km/h in bike lanes or multi-use-paths. Lower speeds when visibility is obscured, or with increasing numbers of people-on-foot on multi-use paths. Faster speeds than that belong on the road.
  13. (Added by HUB Cycling) Do not modify e-bikes in any way to increase power or speed, and for fire safety only use manufacturer supplied replacement batteries and chargers.  
     

Riding an e-bike is a great way to increase your physical activity and get around efficiently. However, it’s important to ensure you’re reviewing important safety considerations before you ride.

Did you find this helpful? If so, consider making a donation to support HUB Cycling’s e-bike advocacy and education work below.