E-bikes and e-scooters are taking over Ontario’s streets — they’re fast, fun, and environmentally friendly. But here’s what many riders don’t realize:
If you crash and cause damage or injuries, you could be personally on the hook.

Let’s break down how liability works in Ontario and how you can protect yourself financially.

Are E-Bikes and E-Scooters Considered Motor Vehicles?

In Ontario, most e-bikes and e-scooters are classified as “power-assisted bicycles” or “kick-type scooters” under the Highway Traffic Act if they meet certain rules:

• Max 500W motor (e-bikes)

• Max 32 km/h top speed

• Functioning pedals (for e-bikes)

• Riders must be at least 16

• Helmet required for under 18

Because they aren’t considered motor vehicles, you don’t need a licence, plate, registration, or auto insurance to operate them.

No Built-In Insurance Coverage

Unlike cars, there’s no automatic insurance policy for e-bikes or e-scooters.

So if you crash into a parked car, hit a pedestrian, or cause property damage, there’s no vehicle policy to cover the costs. The responsibility falls entirely on you as the rider.

How You Can Be Protected

While auto insurance won’t cover these accidents, your homeowners, condo, or tenant insurance policy might.

Most personal property policies include Personal Liability Coverage that applies anywhere in Canada — even when riding an e-bike or scooter.

This coverage can pay for:

• Vehicle repair costs you cause

• Medical bills for injured pedestrians or cyclists

• Legal fees if you get sued

Tip: Check your liability limits — many policies include $1–2 million, which sounds high but can go quickly if someone is seriously injured.

What Auto Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Auto insurance is tied to licensed motor vehicles only. It will not cover:

• Collisions involving your e-bike or e-scooter

• Injuries or damage you cause while riding

• Theft or damage to your e-bike (unless specifically scheduled on your home policy)

Unless you’ve added a rare special endorsement, your car insurance won’t help here.

The Hidden Risks of E-Bikes and E-Scooters

E-bikes and e-scooters are fun and convenient — but they also come with unique risks that many riders don’t think about until it’s too late:

Liability Risk

• You could be personally liable if you hit a car, pedestrian, cyclist, or cause property damage.

• Without liability coverage through a home or tenant policy, you might be sued and forced to pay out-of-pocket.

Collision & Injury Risk

• Riders face a higher risk of injury than drivers because of less physical protection.

• Common injuries include broken bones, concussions, and dental damage from falls or crashes.

• Accidents often occur at night or on busy roads where visibility is low.

Battery Fire Risk

• E-bikes and e-scooters use lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat, explode, or catch fire if damaged or improperly charged.

• Fires can cause serious property damage and are often not covered unless the device is scheduled on your home policy.

Theft Risk

• E-bikes and scooters are prime targets for theft because they’re lightweight and valuable.

• Most are not automatically covered for theft unless you specifically list (schedule) them on your property policy.

Coverage Gaps

• Auto insurance won’t cover them.

• Home/tenant insurance often excludes damage to the device itself unless scheduled.

• This leaves riders exposed to unexpected repair or replacement costs.

Legal & Regulatory Risk

• Riding on sidewalks, without a helmet (if under 18), or exceeding speed limits can lead to fines or impoundment.

• If you’re found breaking the rules during a crash, you could also be found fully at fault.

How to Stay Protected

• Ask your broker to confirm that your home or tenant policy includes personal liability coverage for e-bikes and e-scooters

• Schedule your e-bike as personal property if it’s high-value — this can cover theft or fire

• Wear a helmet, follow the rules of the road, and ride responsibly

Protect Yourself Before You Ride

E-bikes and e-scooters are here to stay — but one crash could leave you paying out of pocket.

Before your next ride, make sure your coverage is in place.

Contact Insured by Kash to review your current policies and add the protection you need.

Insured by Kash
Serving all of Ontario
Phone: 647-922-7317
Email: kashif@bespokeinsurance.ca
Instagram: @insuredbykash

This blog is for general information only and does not replace advice from a licensed insurance professional. Coverage depends on your specific policy wording.