My cousin briefly tried a friend's e-scooter. Within seconds, a terrible accident occurred. He fell backwards and struck his head with devastating force. Since then, he has undergone two emergency brain surgeries, with the most recent being a decompression craniotomy. His brain is badly bruised and swollen, and part of his skull has been removed to relieve the pressure. Tragically, he has been in an induced coma since the accident. He and his young family now face life-altering changes and challenges.

This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for legal reforms regarding e-scooters and e-bikes. Currently, the absence of robust road safety laws for these vehicles poses significant risks to riders and pedestrians alike. E-scooters and e-bikes are increasingly becoming popular modes of transportation across cities worldwide, but safety regulations have not kept pace with their usage.

Data from various studies reveal a concerning rise in accidents involving e-scooters and e-bikes. According to research conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), around 39% of e-scooter injuries are head injuries—many of which could be prevented with mandatory helmet usage. Moreover, statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) underscore the need for comprehensive safety measures, showing that e-scooter injuries have tripled in recent years.

Implementing mandatory helmet laws and establishing comprehensive road safety regulations are essential steps toward reducing preventable injuries and fatalities. Cities like Paris, which have introduced stringent e-scooter laws, have witnessed a marked decrease in accidents. Helmet laws and clear traffic guidelines can significantly enhance safety for all road users.

Therefore, I call upon legislators and policymakers to take immediate action. We need to legalise mandatory helmet usage for e-scooter and e-bike riders, alongside implementing a set of defined road safety laws. It's imperative to safeguard the lives of countless individuals who depend on these vehicles for daily commuting.

Please join me in urging the relevant authorities to prioritise public safety and ensure safer roads for e-scooter and e-bike users. We cannot wait for another tragedy to occur before action is taken. Sign this petition to make a positive change today.