Calls for e-scooter users to wear helmet after fatal crash
The family of a Leeds man who died in a crash while riding his e-scooter are urging others to wear a helmet
Last updated 12th May 2022
The grieving family of a Leeds man who died after being seriously injured in a crash while riding his e-scooter are urging other riders to wear a helmet.
Scott Wilson, 29, from East End Park, received serious head injuries when he fell from the electric scooter after colliding with a lamppost in York Road, near to the junction with Harehills Lane, at 7.24pm on Saturday, April 23.
Police said he underwent emergency surgery and was placed in an induced coma but died in the LGI less than a week later.
He wasn't wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, and his family are now urging other electric scooter riders to wear one.
In a statement, Scott’s family said: “Scott’s death in such sudden and unnecessary circumstances has left us absolutely devastated.
“He had only just celebrated his birthday on April 20. He passed away on Friday, April 29, at Leeds General Infirmary and was surrounded by his parents and siblings and those that he loved.
“Scott was an energetic, genuine and inventive young man who deserved to live a long and happy life.
“Scott died as a result of serious head injuries and he may have been more likely to survive had he been wearing a helmet.
“We would urge anyone who uses an electric scooter to take all necessary safety precautions, including wearing a helmet, to help avoid their family experiencing the same anguish and loss that we are now feeling as a result of Scott’s death.”
Detective Sergeant Paul Lightowler, of the Major Collision Enquiry Team, said: “An e-scooter is a mechanically propelled vehicle as it has electric power. When used on a road, the correct driving licence is required, third-party insurance is required and it will also need to be registered and licenced.
“Legislation relating to e-scooters which have been hired under a trial scheme differs, but there aren’t any of the schemes currently operating in West Yorkshire.
“Offences of driving without due care, dangerous driving and any drink or drug driving offences apply to an e-scooter exactly the same as they would to a car.”