E-scooters and e-bikes have surged in popularity across Queensland, but with their increased use comes a significant rise in injuries and legal concerns. Recent data highlights a worrying trend, with hospital presentations for e-scooter-related injuries climbing sharply.
E-Scooter Injuries Are Increasing at Alarming Rates
- The number of e-scooter-related hospital visits in Queensland more than doubled in just two years, rising from 691 cases in 2021 to 1,273 in 2023.
- On the Gold Coast, hospital emergency departments have seen a 635% surge in e-transport injuries, escalating from 77 cases in 2019/20 to 566 in 2023/24.
- Tragically, eight people lost their lives in Queensland in 2024 while using Personal Mobility Devices.
- A study by the Jamieson Trauma Institute, supported by the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital Foundation and RACQ, found that 50% of e-scooter-related injuries involve head or facial trauma.
- Workers’ compensation claims linked to e-scooter accidents tripled between 2018 and 2022, reaching 421 claims.
Gaps in Insurance Coverage Pose Financial Risks
Despite the growing number of accidents, many e-scooter and e-bike users remain unaware of the significant gaps in insurance coverage, which can leave both riders and victims in financially vulnerable situations.
- Most e-scooter riders in Australia are not required to have Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance. This means that if they are injured while riding, they may have limited or no access to compensation unless they have private insurance.
- Third parties injured by an e-scooter rider face financial uncertainty. Those hit by an uninsured rider may need to rely on income protection insurance or hope the rider has third-party liability coverage, which is not always common.
We’re Here to Help
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, or if you’re unsure about your insurance coverage, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options. Whether you’re a rider or an injured third party, our Compensation Lawyers Gold Coast can guide you through the process of securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and protect your future.
