Dashcam captures dangerous e-scooter encounter involving young riders in Metchosin (VIDEO)

A pair of dashcam videos captured in Metchosin is raising more concerns about young people operating e-scooters on local roads.

The two clips were recorded Saturday, July 11th, near Duke Road and Metchosin Road.

In the first video, a young person can be seen running across the road before jumping onto the back of an e-scooter already being operated by another rider.

The incident unfolds directly in front of the approaching vehicle.

A second clip, recorded moments later, shows the two riders travelling together on the scooter before moving across the path of the vehicle as it approaches the stop sign at Metchosin Road.

The driver who shared the footage believes the riders may have been attempting to show off for a group of other young people nearby.

“On Saturday, July 11th, myself and my partner were involved in a dangerous e-scooter game that gave us a fright,” the driver wrote.

They said they decided to share the footage in hopes the riders’ parents recognize them and speak with them about the risks.

The close call comes as police detachments continue to warn parents about the dangers associated with young and inexperienced riders using e-scooters, e-bikes and other electric mobility devices.

Just days ago, West Shore RCMP said officers had received more than 34 complaints involving e-scooters, e-bikes and e-dirt bikes on public roads since May.

In one recent incident, police encountered an 11-year-old operating an e-scooter, despite riders being required to be at least 16 years old.

Under provincial e-scooter rules, passengers are not permitted and riders must wear an approved helmet. Riders must also follow traffic signs and the same general rules of the road that apply to drivers.

E-scooters can only be used on public roads in communities participating in BC’s pilot project and are subject to local restrictions.

“Parents and guardians must not allow children under 16 to ride an electric kick scooter,” the Province of BC states in its rules.

Police have urged parents to understand the rules before purchasing an e-mobility device for their child, noting that dangerous or illegal operation can result in fines, impoundment and serious injury.

The videos serve as another reminder of how quickly a dangerous situation can develop, particularly when young riders enter a roadway without warning.