A new study by the Jamieson Trauma Institute has revealed that one-third of e-scooter riders admitted to emergency rooms were travelling above the legal speed limit of 25km/h, leading to serious facial and head injuries in popular bayside suburbs like Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Brighton.
This trend has prompted experts to call for changes to e-scooter safety standards, including the use of full-face helmets and a shift towards sit-down scooters.
Study Findings
The study, jointly funded by RACQ and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, found that many riders, particularly those on privately owned e-scooters, exceed the speed limit, leading to more severe injuries. Professor Doctor Michael Schuetz, Jamieson Trauma Institute Director and RBWH Orthopaedic Surgeon expressed concerns over the high proportion of private e-scooter users requiring urgent medical attention and hospital admission.
He urged riders to follow the rules, avoid speeding and drink-riding, wear helmets, and ride in appropriate areas to minimise the risk of serious injuries.
Helmet Effectiveness Questioned
While 65% of riders reported wearing helmets, the high number of facial injuries suggests that standard helmets may not provide adequate protection. Dr Michael Kane, RACQ’s head of public policy, highlighted the dangers of crashing face-first on hard surfaces when riding stand-up scooters. He stressed the need for full-face helmets for private e-scooter riders and advocated for rental companies to transition to sit-down scooters.
Sit-Down Scooters: A Safer Option?
With their lower centre of gravity and increased stability, sit-down scooters offer a safer alternative to traditional stand-up models. Lime Mobility, a Brisbane rental provider, will soon introduce seated e-scooters.
A Lime spokeswoman emphasised the company’s commitment to safety and highlighted the design features of their seated scooters, such as increased suspension and larger wheels. However, Andrew Demack, Bicycles Queensland advocacy director, pointed out that sit-down scooters are bulkier and less convenient than stand-up models, potentially reducing their appeal.
Call for Improved Infrastructure
Demack also emphasised the need for better active transport infrastructure in Brisbane to support safe e-scooter riding. He believes that a comprehensive and well-maintained network of bike paths and dedicated e-scooter lanes is crucial for preventing accidents. This is particularly important in areas like Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Brighton, where e-scooters are a popular mode of transport for residents and visitors.
Community Impact
The high rate of e-scooter accidents is a concern for the Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Brighton communities. Residents are worried about the safety of riders and pedestrians alike. Local businesses are also affected, as accidents can disrupt traffic and create a negative image of the area. Community leaders call for greater awareness of e-scooter safety and stricter enforcement of traffic rules to protect everyone.
Published Date 02-December-2024
