Western Australia’s Police Commissioner, Col Blanch, has called for stricter regulations on the import and sale of electric-powered bikes following a fatal crash involving one such vehicle. Blanch addressed a parliamentary inquiry looking into the regulation of devices like e-scooters and e-bikes, which have seen a surge in popularity in recent years.
The inquiry was initiated after the death of pedestrian Thanh Phan, who was allegedly struck by an e-scooter in Perth’s CBD. The investigation broadened its scope after another fatal incident involving a high-powered electric motorbike. Blanch emphasized that certain devices could reach speeds up to 110 km/h, posing significant risks to public safety.
Blanch stressed the need for clarity from manufacturers, importers, and retailers regarding the sale and import of such devices. He highlighted concerns about the ease with which speed-limiting restrictions could be bypassed, potentially endangering users and pedestrians. The Commissioner advocated for stringent import restrictions on higher-powered electric rideables to prevent unauthorized modifications.
Additionally, Road Safety Commissioner Adrian Warner supported the notion of reviewing regulations at the federal level and proposed the creation of a new class of e-rideables for heavier, faster devices. Paul Simpson, the WA Police executive road policing research manager, underscored the public’s confusion between legal e-rideables and unlicensed vehicles, calling for increased awareness and education on the distinctions.
Blanch also addressed challenges related to enforcing current regulations, citing concerns raised in over 160 submissions to the inquiry regarding the lack of police oversight. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by law enforcement in pursuing offenders, emphasizing the need for improved identification and registration of individuals breaching laws related to e-rideables.
Furthermore, trauma doctors highlighted the prevalence of serious injuries resulting from e-rideables, with men and adolescents being disproportionately affected. They identified speed, drug and alcohol use, and lack of helmet usage as key risk factors contributing to these incidents. The need for enhanced data collection within the health system was emphasized to better understand the impact of e-rideable-related injuries.
As discussions continue within the inquiry, the focus remains on enhancing regulations to ensure the safe use of electric-powered bikes and other rideables. The insights provided by experts and law enforcement officials shed light on the complexities surrounding the growing popularity of e-rideables and the imperative need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to safeguard public well-being.
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