Workers’ compensation claims in Queensland related to e-scooter and e-bike injuries have surpassed $25 million over a span of five years. The trend shows a consistent increase in the number of claims each year, with a majority of incidents occurring while individuals were commuting to or from work. These figures, released by the state-owned WorkCover, shed light on the growing impact of e-scooter and e-bike accidents on the workforce.
Between mid-2020 and mid-2025, WorkCover received 1,321 claims specifically linked to e-scooter or e-bike incidents, amounting to over $25.5 million in compensation costs. Notably, the majority of these claims involved e-scooter accidents, indicating a concerning pattern of injuries associated with this mode of transport. The rising number of claims year on year underscores the urgency to address safety issues surrounding these devices.
Within this timeframe, two fatalities and five cases of serious personal injuries, including traumatic brain and spinal injuries, were reported in connection to e-scooter accidents. WorkCover’s submission to a parliamentary inquiry emphasized the need for improved regulations to enhance e-scooter safety, given the severity of injuries sustained by individuals involved in these incidents.
Despite the benefits of personal mobility devices in facilitating convenient transportation options, the surge in claims and their associated costs raise red flags about the risks posed by e-scooters and e-bikes. The escalating financial burden on workers’ compensation schemes from these claims, which have increased from $2.1 million to $8.4 million over the years, underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate such incidents.
WorkCover’s data revealed that a significant portion of the claims stemmed from injuries sustained by individuals commuting to or from work. This highlights the vulnerability of workers using e-scooters and e-bikes during their daily journeys, emphasizing the importance of ensuring their safety, especially in the context of occupational transportation.
Shine Lawyers’ general manager, Ben Wilcock, noted a growing volume of inquiries related to e-scooter and e-bike injuries, indicating a pressing need for enhanced safety protocols and regulatory oversight. While workers are generally covered under compensation schemes for injuries sustained during work-related activities, exclusions exist for cases involving drugs or alcohol, or substantial deviations from the usual commute.
The parliamentary committee overseeing the e-scooter inquiry is expected to deliver its report by the end of March next year. As the popularity of electric kick scooters continues to rise, stakeholders must prioritize safety measures to prevent further injuries and financial repercussions associated with e-scooter and e-bike accidents.
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