The City of Adelaide has provided two operators, Beam and Ride, with approval to run a trial e-scooter scheme in the city. Riders make use of the scooters by downloading an app to their smartphone and then create an account. Scooters are fitted with GPS tracking so that users can locate and unlock them.
To use an e-scooter, riders must be at least 18 years old and comply with the operator’s terms and conditions. The South Australian Police can also issue penalties for any breaches of the Australian road rules or offences that may apply, for example: failure to wear a helmet carries a $104 fine; underage riders will be fined $300; and riding at speed exceeding 15 km/h carries a $174 fine. All offences carry an additional $60 Victims of Crime Levy and a maximum penalty of $2500.
In the event of an accident involving an e-scooter the rider should give all possible assistance to anyone injured and report the incident to Police and the e-scooter operator. The operator is required to hold public liability insurance to cover personal injury claims for any injuries caused by the e-scooter rider.
If, whilst riding an e-scooter, a rider is injured due to a collision with a motor vehicle, they may be covered by the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance associated with the vehicle if the driver is at fault.
More information on the e-scooter program can be found on the City of Adelaide website: https://www.cityofadelaide.com.au/transport-parking/public-transport/e-scooters/
A Scammell & Co. injury lawyer can provide an assessment of your case based on facts and evidence. If your injuries meet the degree to which you are entitled to make a compensation claim, we will assist with the claim process to ensure you get fair compensation.
Tina Bouras
Senior Solicitor
Personal Injury | Motor Vehicle Accident Claims
tbouras@scammell.com.au
Image courtesy City of Adelaide
*This information is current at the time of publication. For accurate legal advice, please contact Scammell & Co on 08 8440 270.
