Are You Putting Your Child at Risk? The Popular Christmas Gift Leading to Dangerous Aussie Road Behavior Revealed!
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As the festive season approaches, many parents seek the perfect Christmas gift for their children. However, a recent warning from Queensland Police has highlighted a growing concern over a popular present that could put young Aussies at risk on our roads.
E-scooters and e-bikes have become increasingly sought-after gifts, especially among the younger demographic. They offer a sense of freedom and fun, and with the rise of eco-consciousness, they're seen as a trendy and environmentally friendly mode of transport. However, with this surge in popularity comes a significant increase in safety risks, particularly when these personal mobility devices are used improperly.
The Sunshine Coast community has been particularly vocal about the dangers after witnessing 'too many instances of children and adults' engaging in risky behaviour while riding e-scooters and e-bikes. Queensland Police have reported that, up until August 31 of this year, they have issued over 3,730 infringements related to using these devices. The most common infraction? Not wearing a helmet can result in a hefty $161 fine.
In response to these concerns, Sunshine Coast police have teamed up with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, schools, and other organisations to educate the community on safer usage practices. This initiative is timely, considering the recent tragic incidents involving e-scooters, including the death of a 12-year-old boy in Victoria after a collision with a car and the fatalities of a teenage girl in Townsville and a 15-year-old boy in Brisbane in separate accidents.
Joanna Robinson, general manager at Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, emphasised the importance of adhering to safety rules. 'Most e-transport accidents are single-vehicle crashes that involve the rider not following the rules,' she stated. 'Please wear a helmet, buckle it up, and do not drink and ride. Ignoring these rules is risking more than just a fine — it could cost them their lives.'
Parents must understand that e-scooters and e-bikes are not mere toys as we head into the holiday season. They are vehicles that require responsible handling. If you're considering gifting one of these devices, ensure it's legal and that your child is well-informed about the rules and safety measures.
Sunshine Coast Health Services has reported seeing an e-scooter-related injury every three days on average, predominantly among teens aged 14 to 15. These injuries can sometimes result in significant, life-altering consequences. Trauma specialist Dr Andrew Dobbins King noted that 'many of these injuries are the result of risk-taking behaviours, including riding at excessive speeds, doubling, and not wearing helmets.'
Interestingly, research from the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety in Queensland found that riders of hired e-scooters are much less likely to wear helmets than those with private e-scooters. Professor Narelle Howarth pointed out that while governments can more easily regulate public e-scooters in speed and usage areas, their riders often lack experience. On the other hand, private e-scooter riders tend to be more experienced and use more protective gear. However, some private e-scooters can reach high speeds, and there is a call for better national controls to prevent the importation of such high-speed devices.
It's worth noting that the legality of e-scooters varies across Australia. While private e-scooters are legal on Queensland roads under certain conditions, they are prohibited on roads, paths, and suburban streets in New South Wales and South Australia, though they can be used on private property.
As we celebrate the joy of giving this Christmas, let's also prioritise the safety of our loved ones. If you're gifting an e-scooter or e-bike, take the time to educate your child on the proper use and the importance of safety gear. After all, the best gift we can give is the gift of safety.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on this issue. Have you considered buying an e-scooter or e-bike for your child this Christmas? How do you plan to ensure their safety on the roads? Share your stories and tips in the comments below.
E-scooters and e-bikes have become increasingly sought-after gifts, especially among the younger demographic. They offer a sense of freedom and fun, and with the rise of eco-consciousness, they're seen as a trendy and environmentally friendly mode of transport. However, with this surge in popularity comes a significant increase in safety risks, particularly when these personal mobility devices are used improperly.
The Sunshine Coast community has been particularly vocal about the dangers after witnessing 'too many instances of children and adults' engaging in risky behaviour while riding e-scooters and e-bikes. Queensland Police have reported that, up until August 31 of this year, they have issued over 3,730 infringements related to using these devices. The most common infraction? Not wearing a helmet can result in a hefty $161 fine.
Warnings have been issued by Queensland Police over the use of e-scooters and e-bikes due to risky behaviour causing injuries and fatalities. Credit: Queensland Police.
In response to these concerns, Sunshine Coast police have teamed up with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, schools, and other organisations to educate the community on safer usage practices. This initiative is timely, considering the recent tragic incidents involving e-scooters, including the death of a 12-year-old boy in Victoria after a collision with a car and the fatalities of a teenage girl in Townsville and a 15-year-old boy in Brisbane in separate accidents.
Joanna Robinson, general manager at Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, emphasised the importance of adhering to safety rules. 'Most e-transport accidents are single-vehicle crashes that involve the rider not following the rules,' she stated. 'Please wear a helmet, buckle it up, and do not drink and ride. Ignoring these rules is risking more than just a fine — it could cost them their lives.'
Parents must understand that e-scooters and e-bikes are not mere toys as we head into the holiday season. They are vehicles that require responsible handling. If you're considering gifting one of these devices, ensure it's legal and that your child is well-informed about the rules and safety measures.
Sunshine Coast Health Services has reported seeing an e-scooter-related injury every three days on average, predominantly among teens aged 14 to 15. These injuries can sometimes result in significant, life-altering consequences. Trauma specialist Dr Andrew Dobbins King noted that 'many of these injuries are the result of risk-taking behaviours, including riding at excessive speeds, doubling, and not wearing helmets.'
Interestingly, research from the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety in Queensland found that riders of hired e-scooters are much less likely to wear helmets than those with private e-scooters. Professor Narelle Howarth pointed out that while governments can more easily regulate public e-scooters in speed and usage areas, their riders often lack experience. On the other hand, private e-scooter riders tend to be more experienced and use more protective gear. However, some private e-scooters can reach high speeds, and there is a call for better national controls to prevent the importation of such high-speed devices.
It's worth noting that the legality of e-scooters varies across Australia. While private e-scooters are legal on Queensland roads under certain conditions, they are prohibited on roads, paths, and suburban streets in New South Wales and South Australia, though they can be used on private property.
As we celebrate the joy of giving this Christmas, let's also prioritise the safety of our loved ones. If you're gifting an e-scooter or e-bike, take the time to educate your child on the proper use and the importance of safety gear. After all, the best gift we can give is the gift of safety.
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