_E-Scooters – is the jury still out?

Our observations of e-scooters in and around the Melbourne CBD include:

• the ‘dumping’ of e-scooters at the end of a trip seemingly anywhere and often in the middle of footpaths – surely a tripping hazard for pedestrians and especially for people with vision-impairment or reduced mobility;
• the lack of consideration for pedestrian safety with riders often riding on footpaths at speed while dodging those walking;
• riders often without helmets;
• two riders on a single e-scooter and often travelling at speed;
• generally, riders on privately owned e-scooters appear to be riding far more reasonably with an awareness of the relevant road / safety rules, compared to the occasional ride-share e-scooter users;
• a popular method of movement with user advantages over other options. 

It is interesting to note that a number of e-scooter road rules have been implemented by the Department of Transport and Planning in response to safety concerns as they become an increasingly popular alternative mode of transport.  Nevertheless, recent press has noted the increase in injured riders visiting hospital emergency rooms. 

We understand that the Victorian Government is currently undertaking a trial with ride-share companies Lime and Nueron to determine whether e-scooters should be more clearly covered under the Victorian transport system.  The trial period is scheduled to finish in April 2024 and we look forward to seeing the findings and recommendations.