‘Deaths cannot be ignored’: Queensland probes e-scooter safety
Queensland will hold a parliamentary inquiry into the use of electric scooters and bikes, to address safety concerns as Brisbane prepares to host the Olympics.
Eight “personal e-mobility device” users died in the state last year, and injuries to riders, passengers and pedestrians rose by 112% between 2021 and 2024.
Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg says the state’s police are “woefully understaffed to enforce regulations”.
“The increase in injuries and deaths we are seeing because of unsafe and unlawful riding cannot be ignored and I share the community’s concern,” he said.
“It’s important we ... ensure a safe and reliable future for e-scooters and e-bikes, especially as we welcome visitors from all over the world for the 2032 Games.”
The inquiry will hear from road user groups, disability advocates, health and trauma experts, academics, the e-mobility industry and all levels of government.
It will focus on how state rules compare with other jurisdictions, enforcement approaches, importation laws and communication and education.
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