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Introduction: A coroner in Melbourne is delving into the issue of e-scooter speed limiters and their potential for tampering following the tragic death of a young man who crashed while riding at excessive speed. The incident raises concerns about the safety and regulation of e-scooters in the city.
Crash Overview: In September 2022, a 28-year-old man was riding an e-scooter at 50km/h, more than double the legal limit of 20km/h in Victoria, when he hit a speed bump on Pascoe Vale Road and crashed. He sustained severe head injuries and tragically died eight days later in the hospital.
Coroner’s Investigation: Coroner Paul Lawrie is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the deceased’s experience with e-scooters and the design of the Kaabo Mantis 10 Elite e-scooter he was riding. The model was capable of reaching speeds up to 60km/h. Lawrie is particularly interested in the effectiveness of speed-limiting devices and whether they can be easily bypassed.
E-Scooter Safety Concerns: The incident has sparked concerns about the safety of e-scooters, especially those with high power outputs and the potential for modification to exceed speed limits. The coroner’s investigation will also examine the design, power output, and top speeds of similar e-scooters to identify potential safety improvements.
Regulatory Changes and Future Inquiries: The investigation comes in the wake of the Victorian government’s announcement of new e-scooter laws and increased fines, set to take effect in October. The coroner’s findings are expected to contribute to further discussions on e-scooter regulations and safety measures. A one-day inquest is scheduled for November 7th, during which eyewitness accounts and expert opinions will be presented. The court is trying to determine which e-scooter company imports or distributes the Kaabo Mantis in Australia, to invite them to participate.