Mobility Scooters Deliver Big Benefits to Senior Citizens
Media Release from the Independent Rehabilitation Equipment Suppliers Assoc of NSW – some good and interesting points are made:
Any move to curtail the use of scooters among our senior citizens would be a big step back according to
the Independent Rehabilitation Suppliers Association.
Executive Director Chris Sparks said people over 70 are far more likely to be injured driving a car or as a
passenger than using a scooter.
“We strongly support Scooters Australia’s submission to the Australian Consumer and Competition
Commission Inquiry which calls for the Federal Government to run a campaign promoting industry
standards, user training and community awareness,” he said.
He said poor infrastructure, especially ramps from footpath to road were the biggest cause of accidents.
“Sadly there is lack of footpaths in our cities and towns – it is basic infrastructure, but in many cases it is
lacking or non-existent.”
Scooters Australia Executive Director Peter Fraser said that his members made sure customers got the
right scooter and proper training.
“There are people who purchase off the internet and receive very little or no instruction how to use the
scooter properly,” he said.
“This is one area which could be addressed.”
Mr Fraser said that Scooters Australia research showed that scooter use is 2.75 times safer than using
the road for the 70 plus age group.
“We would strongly support the implementation of a motor scooter standard, but most importantly we
believe that there needs to be greater public awareness.”
“The Motor Cycle Beware Campaign in Victoria is an excellent example of how increased awareness can
improve safety,” he said.
For more information, or details of Evolution’s scooter training service, ScooterSafe, please contact the office via phone or email.
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