Electric Scooter Safety Concerns in Western Australia

Strategic Insights -

Police Commissioner Col Blanch has called for a ban on importing high-powered electric scooters in Western Australia, following the death of a Perth father who was struck by one of these vehicles. The incident has sparked a parliamentary inquiry into the safety of electric scooters, which are increasingly being used in public despite being sold legally for private use. The inquiry will consider restrictions on nighttime use, new penalties for illegal use, and potential policy changes.

As e-rideables become more popular, the risk of accidents and injuries has also increased. Royal Perth Hospital head of service Professor Dieter Weber has reported an "exponential increase" in e-rideable-related injuries since 2017, with most cases involving upper limb, facial, head, and neck trauma, similar to those sustained in car crashes or falls from height. Professor Stephen Dunjey from the State Trauma Service has stated that there is no difference in the severity of injuries sustained by someone who falls from an e-rideable or a motorcycle traveling at 70km/h.

Key Takeaways:

  • Police Commissioner Col Blanch has called for a ban on importing high-powered electric scooters due to safety concerns.
  • A parliamentary inquiry has been convened to consider restrictions on nighttime use and new penalties for illegal e-rideable use.
  • Royal Perth Hospital head of service Professor Dieter Weber has reported an "exponential increase" in e-rideable-related injuries since 2017.
  • Most e-rideable-related injuries involve upper limb, facial, head, and neck trauma.
  • Professor Stephen Dunjey from the State Trauma Service has stated that there is no difference in the severity of injuries sustained by someone who falls from an e-rideable or a motorcycle traveling at 70km/h.
  • The inquiry is expected to provide policy recommendations by October.

Statistics:

  • An "exponential increase" in e-rideable-related injuries has been reported since 2017.
  • Royal Perth Hospital has seen a significant increase in upper limb, facial, head, and neck trauma due to e-rideable accidents.
  • There have been no reported differences in the severity of injuries sustained by e-rideable riders and motorcycle riders traveling at 70km/h.

Sources:

  • [The West Australian](https://www.westaustralian.com.au)
  • [Parliament of Western Australia](https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au)
  • [Community Development and Justice Standing Committee](https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/members/Committees/CDJSC/CDCSC/Pages/default.aspx)