Melbourne e-scooter riders branded world’s most ‘delinquent’

Melbourne’s e-scooter riders have been branded the world’s most “delinquent” as fears grow over the rising number of users riding dangerously on footpaths and streets.

Melbourne e-scooter riders have been branded the world’s most “delinquent” as inner city residents and businesses slam illegal and dangerous behaviour on footpaths and streets.

Submissions to Melbourne City Council have complained about drunk and speeding riders putting pedestrians in danger, e-scooters blocking and riding on footpaths, and lack of helmet wearing.

The Andrews government has extended by six months an e-scooter trial involving Melbourne, Yarra and Port Phillip councils that has involved millions of trips so far.

City of Melbourne is preparing a policy on the issue and has flagged that operators who don’t fall into line could be banned from the city.

Yarra River Business Association managing executive Tim Bracher said scooter use, especially in Southbank, had risen enormously as late night alternatives to taxis on weekends.

“The key issues of intoxication, double-occupancy, and non use of the provided helmet is of key concern, in addition to the more general issue of the safety of pedestrians at all times … especially along Southbank Promenade,” his submission said.

“While we are acknowledged as the highest users of e-scooters in Australia and possibly the world, it would seem that we are also the most delinquent city in the world regarding e-scooter use.”

Southbank Residents’ Association president Tony Penna said that while some riders were cautious and complied with rules, others showed “flagrant disregard for traffic lights, pedestrians and cars”.

Melbourne’s e-scooter riders have been branded the world’s most ‘delinquent’. Picture: David Crosling

“There is a consistent presence of scooters blocking footpaths and a hesitance from pedestrians about how to avoid scooters heading towards them,” his submission said.

Mr Penna said GPS technology should be used to limit e-scooters to 5 km/h in busy areas like Southbank Promenade and to ensure they keep off pathways.

The association also wants a curfew for e-scooters at certain locations and times.

Submitter Elaine Collins said it was currently unsafe for pedestrians who were regularly in danger of severe injury from illegal riding on footpaths.

“Personally, I have had several near misses with riders passing me from behind only centimetres from my arm,” she said.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said that safety improvements were needed, and the council had called on the state government, e-scooter operators and other councils to take action.

“This includes increased geo-fencing, improved parking locations, and harsher penalties for offenders,” she said.

“The shared e-scooter scheme has boosted our economy by more than $136m and is proving to be a quick and affordable new mode of transport for residents, visitors and workers.”

“We want to lead by example by only working with e-scooter providers who can meet these compliance standards.”