The Australia´s Transport Accident Commission’s latest road safety campaign is sending a strong message about the risks of unsafe e-scooter use, with a particular focus on the dangers of riding under the influence of alcohol. Just like with cars, e-scooter riders caught drink-riding in Victoria face the same legal consequences as motorists, including potential licence loss. This underscores a clear and vital point: alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times, making it a serious threat to safety on any vehicle, including e-scooters.

Central to the campaign is a series of impactful stop-motion videos that bring toy-like e-scooter riders to life, graphically showing how risky behavior—like drink-riding—can lead to serious injuries or worse. These vivid portrayals aim to dispel the misconception that e-scooters are harmless toys and highlight the grave consequences of breaking road rules. Data supports this approach, showing that head, limb, and facial injuries are among the most common e-scooter-related hospitalisations, with alcohol-impaired riders at significantly higher risk of severe outcomes.

Launching just ahead of the festive season, the campaign emphasizes the importance of safe riding, especially as social gatherings and alcohol consumption typically increase. Authorities urge all riders to understand the rules and take responsibility for their safety and that of others. By highlighting the dangers of alcohol use while riding, the campaign aims to foster a culture of accountability and prevent avoidable tragedies.

For more information on the e-scooter rules, visit transport.vic.gov.au (Australia, December 2024)