Lime boss: E-scooters on paths ‘madness’

The boss of Lime scooters says it’s “madness” users are still allowed to ride on pavements.

Mitchell Price said yesterday: “These scooters are designed for lowspeed roads and cycleways and we know that over 50 per cent of our users in Auckland would feel safer on a protected cycle path.

“It is madness that we are still using scooters on the footpaths.”

Price said there was a demand from e-scooter users for more protected cycle paths, which would remove the machines from footpaths.

Asked if Lime would help pay he said: “We are open to Auckland Council revisiting our permit to add a percentage of ride costs that contribute to local infrastructure”.

Lime’s fleet returned to Auckland streets on Thursday after a dangerous wheel lock fault forced a recall. The company now has to operate within new council guidelines or risk losing its licence.

Lime is required to report “serious safety incidents” anywhere in the world to officials within 48 hours.

Mechanical inspections will also be done on every scooter at least once a week.

“We ask that users be more cautious and check the scooter, do a physical check and make sure it is in working order before using it,” Price said.

On the issue of helmets, Price said they had been discussed in Christchurch but not with Auckland officials.

“They are something I would be supportive for children under the age of 16, otherwise they just add another level of complexity — for instance in Brisbane we have gone through over 6000 helmets,” he said.

“I think there is an option for people to use helmets where possible, and it is encouraged, but certainly it is not something I am out there advocating for.”