Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The increasing adoption of e-scooters in Calgary has raised significant safety concerns, marked by a notable rise in accidents, injuries, and public complaints. Residents and officials contend that reckless riding, speeding on sidewalks, and inadequate helmet use are primary contributing factors to this issue.
The number of e-scooter-related injuries and hospitalizations has increased substantially in Calgary and Alberta, with a 21-22% rise in emergency department and urgent care visits between 2022 and 2023 for Alberta. Medical professionals in Calgary are witnessing more severe injuries, such as broken jaws and spine injuries, frequently resulting from hazardous rider behavior like intoxication, double-riding, or underestimating speed. Common injuries include fractures, particularly wrists and ankles, but the most severe cases involve complex trauma and facial damage. Emergency rooms have reported a steady increase in e-scooter-related injuries, ranging from fractures to head trauma.
Pedestrians, especially seniors, have expressed frustration over near-misses and collisions on crowded pathways. Safety advocates are urging the city to implement stricter law enforcement, including mandatory helmets, designated riding zones, and more stringent fines for reckless riders. The city council is expected to review existing bylaws as complaints continue to escalate.
