News release

RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador encourages e-bike and bicycle users to put safety first

September 12, 2025 - St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

Content

As school and after-school activities resume, RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador is reminding all cyclists — including e-bike riders — to ride safe, wear a helmet and follow the regulations set out in the Highway Traffic Act.

Anyone riding an e-bike or bicycle in this province, regardless of age, is required to wear an approved helmet. Bicycle helmets help to prevent serious head injuries when used correctly: properly fitted helmet can decrease the risk of serious head or brain injury by up to 80%.

Operating a bicycle or e-bike without a helmet is a ticketable offence, and you may be fined up to a maximum of $180.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, e-bike owners must follow all federal legislation. The e-bike motors cannot be more powerful than 500 watts, with a top speed of 32 km/h. They also must have fully operable pedals, meaning the engine must disengage when the operator stops pedaling.

A person riding an e-bike or bicycle has the same rights and duties as a driver of a motor vehicle. Therefore, riders must follow all of the laws outlined in the Highway Traffic Act. To prevent injuries or penalties, RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador encourages all cyclists (including e-bike operators) to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Do not ride your bicycle or e-bike on a sidewalk.
• Always obey all traffic signs and lights.
• Travel on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic.
• Always signal your turns.
• When riding between one half-hour before sunset and one half-hour after sunrise, you are required to have a front white light and a rear red light, or rear red reflector on your bike.
• Your bicycle is required to have at least one brake that stops the bicycle.
• Cyclists have a responsibility to be identifiable. Failing to remain at the scene of an accident or failing to identify yourself and give your address to a police officer are both fineable offences. You may also be subject to arrest.

RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador continues to enforce the regulations as set out in the Highway Traffic Act, and those who do not adhere to these will be subject to fines.

Put on your helmet, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors and fall weather in Newfoundland and Labrador safely!

For more information on bicycle helmet regulations visit: https://www.gov.nl.ca/motorregistration/vehicle-ownership/bicycle-helmets/

For more information on the Highway Traffic Act, visit: https://www.assembly.nl.ca/legislation/sr/statutes/h03.htm 

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