UPDATE: A troubling surge in e-bike accidents across New South Wales has resulted in at least four fatalities this year, drawing urgent attention from safety officials. As e-bikes become increasingly popular, authorities are warning of the rising dangers on the roads.
Transport for NSW confirms a “marked growth in popularity” of e-bikes, but this increase has coincided with a disturbing spike in accidents. Ambulance clinicians in the Central West and Far West regions have treated more than 130 patients for incidents related to e-bikes and e-scooters in just the past few months.
One tragic incident occurred in Lithgow earlier this year, where a woman lost her life due to an e-bike-related accident. This fatality highlights the urgent need for riders and drivers alike to prioritize safety.
Central West Zone Manager for NSW Ambulance, Superintendent Melanie Lawler, expressed grave concerns about the severity of injuries from these accidents. “The injuries tend to vary in severity and have the potential to be life-threatening,” she stated. Superintendent Lawler emphasized the importance of wearing proper protective gear, including a helmet, to mitigate risks.
Michelle Harper, a Central West mother, shared her son Marcus’s near-miss with an e-bike accident when he was struck by a car in 2024. “So many people are in too much of a rush, and we’ve lost our common courtesy on the roads,” she said. Her experience underscores the need for greater awareness among both cyclists and drivers.
Officials urge that riders should stay vigilant and respect road rules. In NSW, it is essential for e-bike users to wear helmets, stay off footpaths, and yield to pedestrians on shared paths. Currently, riding e-scooters is illegal outside private property in NSW, with few exceptions.
Superintendent Lawler has called for increased vigilance, stating, “Making sure you’re riding to the conditions and remaining conscious of your surroundings can save lives.”
As the state grapples with this alarming trend, action is needed to prevent further tragedies. Witnesses to accidents are urged to call triple zero immediately to ensure that help arrives quickly.
The situation remains critical, and authorities are monitoring the rising trend of e-bike usage closely. As accidents continue to rise, it is imperative for all road users to exercise caution and courtesy.
Stay tuned for further developments as officials work to address the safety concerns surrounding e-bikes in NSW.
