Plan to lock eScooters in suspect areas at suspect times to reduce alcohol-related injuries
A PLAN to stop Darwin’s eScooters from entering certain areas after dark could significantly reduce injuries caused by inebriated users
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A PLAN to stop Darwin’s eScooters from entering certain areas after dark could significantly reduce injuries caused by inebriated users, with the majority of injuries happening after riders have been drinking, one of the Territory’s leading doctors says.
In November, the NT News reported scooter use and injuries increased when Darwin’s pubs and licensed venues were open, suggesting they were a popular mode of transport for those looking to enjoy a night on the town, according to data provided by Darwin Council and scooter operator Neuron.
ESCOOTER ESCAPADES
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Australian Medical Association NT president Dr Robert Parker said locking scooters during suspect hours was the best way to reduce accidents.
“The understanding is people are presenting in ED after (pub) closing time; it tends to be in association with alcohol-related activities in the later part of the day,” he said.
“Where you get large amounts of people who are drunk and likely to behave in an inappropriate way, it’s much easier to lock the scooters down for that period.
“It’s hard, police have only got so much they can do.”
It comes after Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis suggested locking eScooters at times when people might be tempted to ride while under the influence of alcohol.
“There must be a reason why there are so many idiots hurting themselves and I think the reason is alcohol,” he said.
“Tourists can still use it, people can use it during the day but we’ll have to work out a way to restrict them around drinking areas.”
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The report, compiled by Neuron ahead of a 12-month eScooter trial extension with Darwin Council, revealed the most frequent times and types of injuries on scooters during the program’s first six months.
It said more than 85 per cent of incidents happened between 6pm and 3am, with 24 of the 30 injuries occurring from Thursday to Sunday.
The report however showed trips had been a positive for people and the economy, with 90 per cent of users believing Neuron had a positive impact on the city.
Neuron has been contacted for comment.
ESCOOTER STATS
Total injuries Jan – July: 30
Most common injuries:
Head – 16; Face – 4
Most frequent injury times:
11pm, 3am – 5; 8pm – 4
Most frequent injury days:
Friday – 8; Thursday – 6
Most frequent injury months:
March – 9; February, June – 7
Most frequent trip months:
July – 59,000; June – 35,000
FEBRUARY TO MARCH STUDY
Most frequent trip days:
Saturday – 59,000
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