E-scooters? ‘Run a mile’!

I note with satisfaction that the regulations/makeshift rules concerning the use of these lethal weapons are just perfect in all respects, namely:

1. To hire one of these you must be 18 years+ and provide a driver’s licence.

2. You can empower a minor of 15 years+ to ride with a helmet.

3. One cannot have a child standing in front, clutching the upright shaft especially without a helmet.

Good rules? Wrong! There is no one to police these rules and hand out tickets.

Let me take you down to the Upland Rd park to see for yourselves. Oh, do be careful of those dear little darlings threatening to run you down with their silent vehicles whilst wearing those invisible helmets. They have been handed their equipment by “Mummy or Daddy” to do as they please without a solitary “Excuse me”, thus giving their responsible parents the opportunity to stay home.

Is any such darling over 15 years? No! Is a helmet in evidence? No! Is there an adult riding one? Yes! And what’s more, without a helmet. But wait, here’s more. What’s that standing in front of Daddy? Well it happens to be 3-year-old “dearest” clutching the upright shaft, and what’s more, you guessed it, without a helmet. What’s this? Another one of the same with an extra urchin hanging on to his legs behind. Oh my . . . must be legal then.

Having witnessed collisions and many near collisions, including with me, on a walk, I am now firmly convinced that if I step foot out of my property it may be my last action in life. Whatever we do we must never blame these darlings for mowing down that dear old lady clutching her stick, and what’s more, never ever blame those responsible parents if there is a split skull involved here. Aren’t we so lucky to have so many wonderful people in control of our wellbeing among our City Fathers. Take care and run a mile if you sight an eScooter.

J.Antonievich, Auckland.