Electric scooters have become a popular mode of transport in Australia, but inconsistent regulations across states are raising concerns about safety for riders and pedestrians. One such incident involved Jasmine Flowers, who suffered a traumatic brain injury at the age of 16 while riding an e-scooter on the Sunshine Coast. Her accident highlights the risks associated with these devices.
Jasmine’s e-scooter mishap left her in a coma for several days, resulting in long-term health issues such as memory loss and facial paralysis. Her story sheds light on the dangers that young riders face, with thousands of Australians, particularly children, ending up in emergency departments due to e-scooter accidents. Speeding, lack of helmets, and alcohol consumption are common factors contributing to these incidents.
Professor Kirsten Vallmuur from the Jamieson Trauma Institute notes that a significant number of e-scooter riders exceed speed limits, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement and regulations. However, the lack of consistent national data collection on e-scooter accidents complicates efforts to address these safety concerns effectively.
The root of the problem lies in the varying rules and regulations governing e-scooter and e-bike use across different Australian states. Queensland allows private e-scooter ownership and footpath riding, while New South Wales prohibits private ownership. Discrepancies in speed limits and device specifications further complicate the regulatory landscape, leading to the import and use of non-compliant and potentially hazardous devices.
Recognizing the need for standardized rules, Queensland and Western Australia have initiated public inquiries into e-device usage, with growing calls for nationwide regulatory consistency. Townsville resident Tristan Bowen, who is visually impaired, highlights the challenges posed by e-scooters and e-bikes on pedestrian pathways, advocating for measures such as speed restrictions and enhanced safety features to mitigate risks for vulnerable road users.
Experts suggest that Australia could learn from international models, such as the UK, where strict licensing requirements and age restrictions apply to e-scooter and e-bike riders. Queensland University of Technology Professor Narelle Haworth underscores the importance of aligning regulations with road safety standards to prevent accidents and protect public health.
Jasmine Flowers and her father have become advocates for change, urging policymakers to implement comprehensive safety measures for e-scooter users, including mandatory safety courses and reduced speed limits. Their campaign reflects a broader push for enhanced regulations that prioritize public safety and mitigate the risks associated with the growing popularity of e-scooters in Australia.
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