Don't swig and scooter: Lethbridge’s rental e-scooters are still vehicles, warn police

A row of Neuron e-scooters can be seen in a stock photo. (Getty Images)

Lethbridge police are warning residents that drinking and driving remains illegal even if you're on an electric scooter instead of in a car.

E-scooters have quickly become a popular mode of transportation for citizens since they were introduced to Lethbridge in early April, but the rules for operating them are the same as any motor vehicle.

While the Lethbridge Police Service says the majority of riders are using e-scooters responsibly, they say officers have dealt with a handful of incidents where they weren't being used safety.

For example, Sgt. Daniel Lomness with Lethbridge Police Service traffic unit says they issued a ticket to one e-scooter operator accused of being over the legal limit when involved in a hit-and-run with a parked car.

"We have had a few incidents where users of e-scooters have been involved in a collision with motor vehicles, mainly in crosswalks," Lomness added.

The City of Lethbridge amended a bylaw to allow the use of Neuron’s e-scooters on sidewalks, but says even when travelling on the sidewalk, they are considered motor vehicles.

Neuron Mobility, meanwhile, has warned that users who don't abide from their rules and safety tips can have their riding privileges revoked or face fines.

"All Neuron riders sign up to a comprehensive list of riding rules before they are allowed to take their first trip," said Neuron Mobility in a statement to CTV News.

"At the start of every journey, these rules appear on our app and the rider must agree to these before starting their ride."

Rental e-bikes are not included in the amended bylaw and must only be operated on the street.

To help encourage safe riding, Neuron Mobility will be hosting a ScootSafe event in Lethbridge on Saturday at the Farmers’ Market at Lethbridge and District Exhibition.

LPS says the e-scooters should remain a fun way to get around the city, but want riders to keep safety top of mind.

"We hope the users of the e-scooters and even the e-bikes just make sure their aware of other motorists and pedestrians on the roadways or sidewalks, especially on the sidewalks, pedestrians would have the ride of way, so riders should try to give them as much distance as necessary," said Lomness.