E-scooter-related hospital presentations in Bunbury hits high with more than 20 so far this year

Regional hospitals are seeing a sharp rise in e-scooter-related presentations, with Bunbury a hot spot amid a warning going out for the popular Christmas present ahead of the festive season.

As of October 17, 22 e-scooter-related injuries have presented to Bunbury Regional Hospital this year, according to data presented to Parliament during question time.

This is one more than last year but more than double the tally of 2022 when only nine presentations occurred.

In 2021, fewer than five presentations were made to the State’s biggest regional hospital — but COVID restrictions plagued the State at this time.

Bunbury outpaced all other regional hospitals in 2024 by nearly four times as Albany saw the next highest figure with six.

A WA Country Health Service spokesperson said there were a number of measures riders could take to be more safe.

“Our hospitals and health services are always prepared to support individuals in need of medical care,” they said.

“We’d like to take this opportunity to emphasise essential safety measures that reduce the risk of e-scooter injuries, such as always wearing a helmet, adhering to speed limits, being visible, staying vigilant for other road users, keeping hands on the handles, and avoiding riding under the influence of alcohol.

“By following these guidelines, individuals can significantly contribute to a safer e-scooter environment for everyone.”

With incidents rising, and Christmas time approaching, watchdogs are warning parents of the risks.

Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake said parents should think about how suitable an e-scooter is for children.

“Many eRideables are designed for people aged over 16 years old due to the speed limit exceeding 10km/h, which is the maximum speed allowed for children,” he said.

“It’s also important to remember that children under 16 are not allowed to use devices on public roads and paths, only on private property and in non-public areas.”

Current laws in Western Australia mean e-scooter riders must wear a helmet, be aged at least 16 and stick to 10km/h on footpaths and 25km/h on bike paths and shared or local roads.

E-scooter usage has been increasing in the South West, with many local governments opting to embrace the technology.

In Bunbury, Beam Mobility e-scooters have been available to use since 2021 after a COVID interrupted trial in 2020.

Just two months ago the City of Busselton council voted to enter into negotiations with Neuron to continue e-scooter usage in the town after the trial period ended.

Not everyone has been happy to be taken along for the ride however, with community surveys showing backlash to e-rideables.

Concerns included safety issues, bad etiquette on pathways and poor scooter parking.

Ultimately the council decided the high uptake of the devices was proof it was a valuable addition to the city.