Daily London
Illegal or modified e-scooters and e-bikes can void insurance coverage and pose serious fire risks, authorities have warned.
With electronic devices likely to be a popular gift under the tree this Christmas, the Insurance Council of Australia is urging buyers to purchase from reputable suppliers.
Lithium-ion battery devices can ignite from overcharging, physical damage, heat exposure and manufacturing defects.
There have been 303 lithium-ion battery-related incidents so far this year across the state, 106 of them involving “e-micromobility devices” such as scooters or bikes.
And if the device is illegal, like those modified after purchase, they may not be covered by home and contents insurance policies.
It may also impact public liability cover if the rider or a third party is injured or third-party property is damaged.
“We are now too regularly seeing fires caused by owners who are careless using, charging, and storing their devices, resulting in serious injuries and damage to assets and property,” ICA CEO Andrew Hall said.
“We encourage anyone with an e-bike or e-scooter to have a discussion with their insurer to ensure they have the appropriate coverage they need.”
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said choosing reputable brands and using the charger that came with it could help avoid incidents.
”Unfortunately, we’ve seen how lithium-ion battery fires have led to fatalities and we’ve seen other people lose their homes and all their possessions due to such blazes,” he said.
“Christmas is a really exciting time of the year. We want people to enjoy that time with their families. We don’t want things to go wrong.”
