An expert from the University of Canberra has raised concerns about the potential impacts of shared e-scooters in the ACT. Dr. Amanda George emphasized the need for more public data on e-scooter accidents before signing deals with new operators. The caution comes in light of recent incidents, including a fatal collision involving a pedestrian in Perth.
Research published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health highlighted the frequency of e-scooter injuries among children, with a significant proportion being life-threatening. Dr. George’s team conducted a study that revealed risky behaviors among young e-scooter riders in Canberra, such as not wearing helmets or carrying multiple passengers.
While Canberra Health Services do not specifically code e-scooter injuries, a study by the ACT Branch of the Australia Orthopaedic Association found a significant number of injuries attributed to e-scooters requiring surgical procedures. Dr. George emphasized the need for comprehensive injury data and a consistent reporting mechanism to understand the full scope of the issue.
Following the ban of Beam Mobility, the ACT Government has been exploring new e-scooter operators like Ario, which offers safety features such as AI-driven cameras and remote control. However, Dr. George suggested refraining from introducing new operators until legal frameworks around e-scooter use are revised to enhance safety for riders and the community.
Current regulations in the ACT set minimum age limits for e-scooter use, but Dr. George highlighted discrepancies across jurisdictions and the need for further research on age restrictions. She also emphasized the importance of justifying existing laws and ensuring consistent communication to promote rider safety.
The upcoming tender for shared e-scooter providers in Canberra should prioritize safety, responsibility, transparency, local engagement, and innovation with integrity, according to industry perspectives. Companies vying for the tender must demonstrate a commitment to reducing injuries and enhancing overall safety for riders and pedestrians.
Despite the challenges in extracting injury data, Dr. George advocated for nationwide data reporting mechanisms to provide a comprehensive understanding of e-scooter-related incidents. The call for more research, data transparency, and safety improvements underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the integration of shared e-scooters in urban environments.
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