'It's just too dangerous': Councils push greater fines for offenders of this one pedestrian rule
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Electric vehicles, such as e-bikes and e-scooters, have seen a surge in popularity over the recent years.
With the rise in e-bike usage, there's been a corresponding increase in community concern, especially among seniors and those with mobility issues, who feel their safety is being compromised.
E-bikes have been lauded for their environmental benefits and their role in promoting sustainable transport.
Bicycle NSW CEO Peter McLean shared several advantages of using e-bikes and highlighted their efficiency and the positive impact they have on traffic congestion.
For short commutes, e-bikes offer a cleaner, faster alternative to cars.
However, local councils in NSW recently took a stand against a 'dangerous' act on footpaths: the reckless riding of these speedy two-wheelers.
Seniors and individuals with disabilities argued that footpaths, designed for pedestrian use, are not the right places for e-bikes.
NSW laws have already implemented a fine of $136 for those caught riding e-bikes on footpaths.
Yet, enforcement of this penalty has been lax, with authorities seldom issuing fines.
A NSW parliamentary inquiry into e-scooters and e-bikes brought these concerns to light as they started addressing illegal e-bike behaviour.
While the responsibility for enforcement falls under the NSW Police, there have been several calls for stricter regulations and enforcement measures.
Community groups like the Glebe Society in Sydney's Inner West started advocating for increased awareness and stricter regulatory measures.
Janet Oakley, a member of the society, expressed her frustration over the lack of enforcement.
'E-bikes weave between pedestrians with scant regard for safety, and there seems to be no risk of penalty,' Ms Oakley stated.
Resident Barry Ahearn echoed this sentiment.
'I have no issue with them in the bike lanes, but on the footpaths, it's just too dangerous,' Mr Ahearn shared.
Despite the proliferation of e-bikes, reports suggested that less than a dozen fines have been issued for riding them on footpaths.
Additionally, only 11 cyclists received related penalties.
To address these safety concerns, some councils proposed new regulations—including equipping oversized e-bikes with noise-emitting devices to alert pedestrians.
Sutherland Shire Council believed that these devices could help reduce the risk of collisions.
The Northern Beaches Council also highlighted the growing unease among residents, particularly older and vulnerable individuals, who feel unsafe on footpaths due to the presence of e-bikes.
Near-misses and previous traumas left senior community members anxious and have reconsidered walking outside—which could negatively impact their physical health and social needs.
The council has also raised concerns about young riders who may not possess the necessary cognitive skills and empathy to manage the risks associated with e-bike riding safely.
While Peter McLean of Bicycle NSW expressed his support for the e-bike movement, he also acknowledged that these devices could be unsafe in inexperienced hands.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of urban transport, it's crucial to balance the benefits of e-bikes with the safety of all footpath users.
For senior community members, who may be more vulnerable to the dangers posed by these devices, the push for stricter enforcement and regulation is a welcome step towards safety.
Have you had any close calls with e-bikes on your local footpath? Will the proposed fines and regulations be sufficient to address the issue? Share your stories and thoughts about this in the comments below!
With the rise in e-bike usage, there's been a corresponding increase in community concern, especially among seniors and those with mobility issues, who feel their safety is being compromised.
E-bikes have been lauded for their environmental benefits and their role in promoting sustainable transport.
Bicycle NSW CEO Peter McLean shared several advantages of using e-bikes and highlighted their efficiency and the positive impact they have on traffic congestion.
For short commutes, e-bikes offer a cleaner, faster alternative to cars.
Electric bikes and scooters have gained popularity among younger commuters. Image Credit: Pexels/Motor TruckRun
However, local councils in NSW recently took a stand against a 'dangerous' act on footpaths: the reckless riding of these speedy two-wheelers.
Seniors and individuals with disabilities argued that footpaths, designed for pedestrian use, are not the right places for e-bikes.
NSW laws have already implemented a fine of $136 for those caught riding e-bikes on footpaths.
Yet, enforcement of this penalty has been lax, with authorities seldom issuing fines.
A NSW parliamentary inquiry into e-scooters and e-bikes brought these concerns to light as they started addressing illegal e-bike behaviour.
While the responsibility for enforcement falls under the NSW Police, there have been several calls for stricter regulations and enforcement measures.
Community groups like the Glebe Society in Sydney's Inner West started advocating for increased awareness and stricter regulatory measures.
Janet Oakley, a member of the society, expressed her frustration over the lack of enforcement.
'E-bikes weave between pedestrians with scant regard for safety, and there seems to be no risk of penalty,' Ms Oakley stated.
Resident Barry Ahearn echoed this sentiment.
'I have no issue with them in the bike lanes, but on the footpaths, it's just too dangerous,' Mr Ahearn shared.
Despite the proliferation of e-bikes, reports suggested that less than a dozen fines have been issued for riding them on footpaths.
Additionally, only 11 cyclists received related penalties.
To address these safety concerns, some councils proposed new regulations—including equipping oversized e-bikes with noise-emitting devices to alert pedestrians.
Sutherland Shire Council believed that these devices could help reduce the risk of collisions.
The Northern Beaches Council also highlighted the growing unease among residents, particularly older and vulnerable individuals, who feel unsafe on footpaths due to the presence of e-bikes.
Near-misses and previous traumas left senior community members anxious and have reconsidered walking outside—which could negatively impact their physical health and social needs.
The council has also raised concerns about young riders who may not possess the necessary cognitive skills and empathy to manage the risks associated with e-bike riding safely.
While Peter McLean of Bicycle NSW expressed his support for the e-bike movement, he also acknowledged that these devices could be unsafe in inexperienced hands.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of urban transport, it's crucial to balance the benefits of e-bikes with the safety of all footpath users.
For senior community members, who may be more vulnerable to the dangers posed by these devices, the push for stricter enforcement and regulation is a welcome step towards safety.
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