‘We do want to take this opportunity to reinforce the rules as well as our safety guideline’: eScooter safety officers deployed

SAFETY officers linked to eScooter company Neuron will be deployed in the Darwin CBD this week

• eScooter accidents leave two riders in hospital

SAFETY officers linked to eScooter company Neuron will be deployed in the Darwin CBD this week as debate ramps up about rule-breaking users and rider safety.

It comes following calls for eScooters to be prohibited from entering parts of the city where riders may be tempted to scoot under the influence of alcohol or against Neuron’s rules.

The ambassadors will roam CBD landmarks such as Crocosaurus Cove, the Mitchell Centre, Hotel Darwin and the Flag Store on Edmund Street from Thursday to Sunday evenings over the next four weeks to educate riders about riding rules and safety guidelines.

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Riders who complete ScootSafe briefings will be rewarded with 50c eScooter credits for future rides.

Neuron Mobility regional manager Richard Hannah said while locals and visitors had embraced eScooters and had done so safely, they always needed to be aware of safety precautions.

“We do want to take this opportunity to reinforce the rules as well as our safety guidelines,” he said.

“Neuron’s eScooters are as safe as they have ever been, however like all forms of mobility, complacency and not following the rules could lead to accidents that are otherwise avoidable.”

Neuron has implemented restrictions on Mitchell Street, including riding only between 6am and 8pm and now send safety reminders to users 9pm to 5am every Saturday night.

Australian Road Safety Foundation chief executive Russell White said eScooters had proven to be a popular mode of transport for short trips.

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“We’re urging all riders to be responsible. Don’t be complacent, don’t drink and ride, and please wear a helmet even on the shortest trip – Neuron’s eScooters all have one provided,” he said.

“Be aware of the riding environment, pedestrians and others, and remove distractions, including earphones.”

Those who break the rules, or have been found to have ridden dangerously can be banned from the Neuron service completely and also risk police prosecution.

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