The federal Minister for Consumer Affairs, Dr Craig Emerson has issued a warning to users of mobility scooters, after receiving advice from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Mr Emerson said scooter accidents have led to 71 deaths in Australia since July 2000.
“While mobility scooters allow people with limited ability to maintain active, independent lifestyles these injury statistics are alarming,” Dr Emerson said.
“The ACCC will invite a number of key stakeholders to form a reference group to develop a joint national approach to problems involving motorised mobility scooters,” he said.
Dr Emerson said scooter users should ensure they have the physical and cognitive ability to drive them.
He also said they should stick to a limit of 10km/h and slow down when they are close to pedestrians and cyclists.
Discussions about scooter safety have been welcomed by consumer group, National Seniors.
“These scooters play a valuable role in ensuring older Australians remain mobile and engaged in their communities so they do not become socially isolated,’’ said National Seniors CEO, Michael O’Neill.
“So banning these scooters certainly isn’t an option, perhaps enhancing education and awareness amongst scooter users, and amongst drivers generally would be more appropriate.”
Mr O’Neill also urged local councils to ensure footpaths and ramp surfaces were up to standard.
