E-scooter crash leaves teen with fractured skull as SA reviews laws

South Australia is grappling with a rise in e-device accidents, with two recent incidents highlighting safety concerns. A 15-year-old girl sustained a fractured skull after crashing an e-scooter in Nairne, while an 18-year-old man broke his leg in a separate e-bike collision with a parked car in Kensington.

Police Commissioner Grant Stevens described the incidents as raising "genuine concern" about the use of personal mobility devices. He noted that while most people use these devices responsibly, a small proportion engaging in unsafe behavior can still lead to significant numbers of accidents.

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The person in Nairne has a fractured skull and the 18-year-old in Norwood has a broken leg.

"When you think about the number of these devices that are out and about now, if you have a small number or proportion of people who are doing the wrong thing that can be quite significant in terms of actual numbers," Stevens told 891 ABC Adelaide. He observed that many riders are seen without helmets, particularly in metropolitan areas.

The accidents come as the South Australian government prepares to review its e-device laws in July. Commissioner Stevens confirmed that police are compiling data on incidents and contributing factors to advise the government on potential legislative changes. The review aims to address growing concerns about the safety and regulation of e-scooters and e-bikes on public roads.

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When you think about the number of these devices that are out and about now, if you have a small number or proportion of people who are doing the wrong thing that can be quite significant in terms of actual numbers.