Sharp Increase: Eight Times More Cyclists Fined for Riding E-Bikes Without Helmets in Quebec

Despite legislation and fatalities, helmets are still not provided as part of the city’s bike-share system, àVélo.

From Double Digits to a Fine Frenzy

Between 2019 and 2023, police in Quebec issued between 17 and 42 fines annually to e-bike riders caught without helmets. But in 2024, that number skyrocketed: a total of 332 cyclists were penalized for the infraction. According to the SPVQ (Service de police de la Ville de Québec), the surge is due to both a significant increase in e-bike usage and an intensified police focus.

“We have combined preventive and repressive measures, which has led to the issuance of numerous fines,” explained SPVQ spokesperson William Robitaille in a written statement. Each infraction carries a $200 fine, adding up to $32,424 in 2024 alone.

Fatality and Public Debate

The debate reignited after a young man died in 2023 while riding an e-bike without a helmet. A coroner’s report released last week confirmed he was not wearing one at the time of the crash. The incident prompted a statement from Mayor Bruno Marchand but did not lead to a policy shift.

“It’s a super unfortunate situation, but it doesn’t change our decision. This is about individual responsibility and hygiene,” said Marchand, according to Journal de Québec.

No Helmets with Shared Bikes

Although the law is clear – riding an e-bike without a helmet is prohibited – Quebec’s àVélo system still does not include helmets. And while authorities stress that only certified helmets should be used, the responsibility to comply lies entirely with the users.

SPVQ Deputy Director Dominic Gaudreau confirmed in April that officers will continue to monitor cyclists throughout the summer and issue fines when helmets are not worn. For the people of Quebec, the message is clear: if you choose to ride an e-bike without a helmet, you’re also choosing the risk of a fine.

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