E-scooters outside Tesco Express, Acorn Road (Image Credit: Samantha Seidu)
Concerns about pedestrian safety have been raised by Jesmond residents due to the misuse of e-vehicles.
Issues such as inappropriate parking, risky driving, driving without a helmet and 'double riding' (two people on one scooter) have become an inconvenience to the Jesmond community and in some cases, a hazard.
"Every day I see one [e-scooter] that has been knocked over which is really dangerous", said one resident, who asked not to be named.
The resident added: "They are also parked up in the middle of the pathway so people have to walk onto the busy road in order to get around them. It also isn't safe for people with mobility scooters and wheelchairs".
Dangerous driving has also been seen to cause serious injuries.
"I've seen a hit-and-run accident at the bottom of Osborne Road where I saw a young man on the ground being attended to by the emergency services," another resident said.
Locals have also complained about unsafe driving by food delivery drivers, who typically use e-bikes around the area.
"It is becoming more dangerous to walk around with kids since their bikes are so fast. You can't predict when they will pass by and how you should react", said an elderly resident.
"We need more initiatives to address this and make them more aware of their driving," they added.
Northumbria Police say residents have made them aware of several incidents regarding the misuse of e-bikes and scooters and pledge to continue to tackle the issue.
"As a force, we have carried out extensive work with support from our partners to help educate users of electric motorbikes and e-scooters to better promote responsible and legal use", a spokesperson said.
The spokesperson added: "Officers take the safety of pedestrians and road users very seriously, and where reports are made of dangerous or careless riding, action will be taken".
A spokesperson from Deliveroo told JesmondLocal: "Road safety is a priority for Deliveroo. Before riding with us, every rider completes a programme of road safety guidance. All our riders are required to meet minimum safety standards and, as with all road users, they must follow all local road safety laws".
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