The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has launched an awareness campaign to help cut injuries related to mobility scooters. This campaign comes as two Australians have been killed or seriously injured in mobility scooter accidents during the past fortnight.
"It may surprise many people to know that since 2000, more than 70 Australians, mostly in their 70s, 80s and 90s, have died from mobility scooter accidents," ACCC deputy chair Peter Kell said.
"While mobility scooters offer many older people freedom and independence, it is alarming to see that an average of 500 people a year suffer serious head and limb injuries after experiencing a mobility scooter accident.
"That is why I am asking mobility scooter suppliers and organisations that provide services to older people to help distribute our new booklet and promote the easy steps we recommend to minimise the risk of an accident."
The ACCC recommends older people have a physical check up before buying a mobility scooter to ensure they have the strength, vision, hearing, concentration, judgement and responsiveness to confidently drive a mobility scooter in a variety of conditions.
Drivers are also urged to:
- have some training before driving on footpaths or in shopping centres and parks – only use roads as a last resort
- if roads are the only option, stick as close as possible to the kerb, facing the oncoming traffic, and exercise additional caution
- install a flag, lights and reflectors on the mobility scooter and wear bright clothes so that motorists and pedestrians can see you
- drive at no more than 10 km per hour, and at lower speeds in rough or crowded conditions
- don't drink and drive
- only cross roads at the lights or pedestrian crossings
- keep the load down–limit the weight of parcels and never carry anyone else as this can cause tipping
- wear a helmet.
After consultations with industry and stakeholders, the ACCC has commissioned research to find out what factors are the main causes of mobility scooter accidents.
"Results of our current study will help the ACCC determine where to focus additional efforts to minimise risks," Mr Kell said.
"In the mean time, we hope suppliers and providers of services for older people will help us spread the word so older people using mobility scooters have information that will help them to stay mobile and safe."