The Western Australian government has decided to expand its inquiry into the safety of e-rideables to include electric dirt bikes following a tragic incident in Perth. The decision comes after a 59-year-old woman lost her life in Picnic Cove Park after being struck by a high-powered electric motorcycle. The teenager allegedly responsible for the accident has been charged with manslaughter and other offenses related to the incident.
As the state parliament examines the safety, regulation, and penalties associated with electric personal mobility devices, commonly known as e-rideables, the definition in Western Australia currently encompasses devices weighing up to 25 kilograms with a speed limit of 25 kph on level ground. The electric motorbike involved in the fatal crash does not meet this definition, prompting Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby to propose expanding the inquiry’s scope to include such vehicles.
Whitby emphasized the need to enhance safety measures for these devices, particularly in highly populated areas and entertainment precincts. The tragic incident in Edgewater underscores the importance of reviewing the governance and safety regulations surrounding e-rideables. The government’s reconsideration to include electronic bikes in the parliamentary inquiry marks a significant shift in policy, acknowledging the pressing issues and risks associated with these forms of transportation.
Following the death of another pedestrian in a separate incident involving an e-scooter earlier in the year, concerns about the safety of battery-powered vehicles have been mounting. The family of the victim called for a review of safety regulations surrounding hired e-scooters, leading to the temporary suspension of e-scooter rentals by the City of Perth. Trauma services at Royal Perth Hospital have reported a concerning increase in serious injuries resulting from e-scooter accidents.
Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas stressed the urgency of prioritizing safety in the use of e-rideables, highlighting the need to balance accessibility with public safety. The ongoing inquiry aims to explore potential recommendations to address the risks associated with these devices, including restrictions on their usage in urban areas and the implementation of new technologies to enhance safety measures.
The broader scope of the inquiry reflects a growing awareness of the need to regulate and ensure the safety of off-road electric scooters and other e-rideables. As technological advancements continue to drive innovation in personal mobility devices, policymakers face the challenge of balancing convenience with public safety concerns. The tragic incidents in Perth serve as poignant reminders of the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks and safeguard the well-being of pedestrians and riders alike.
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