Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Scooter users quick off the mark
MEDIA RELEASE
Horizons Regional Council
Tuesday 6 November, 2012
Scooter users quick off the mark
Around 50 mobility scooter users lined up for their shot at Melbourne Cup glory during Horizons Regional Council’s annual Mobility Scooter Day at the Esplanade in Palmerston North today.
Riders came from as far afield as Wanganui and Levin for the event where they enjoyed the opportunity to race in a safe environment while taking onboard important road safety messages.
Horizons road safety coordinator Alane Nilsen said the fastest rider clocked upwards of 14km on the police speed radar but on the footpath mobility scooter users should stick to around 6-7km.
“Days like today provide a great opportunity for mobility scooter riders to have a bit of fun and exercise their inner speed racer in a safe environment but when you’re riding on the footpath you do need to take care,” Mrs Nilsen said.
“You don’t have to sit a test to drive a mobility scooter but you do need to be aware of your surroundings and drive defensively to keep yourself and others safe.
“Fitting a flag to the back of your scooter at a height of at least 1.5 metres and driving in the middle of the footpath are just a couple of ways to stay safe and be seen. If you see a vehicle, slow down; just because you’ve seen them, doesn’t mean they’ve seen you.”
As well as the egg and spoon style race, scooter riders were encouraged to navigate a series of everyday obstacles and test their top speeds individually with help from police.
The group also heard from Horizons’ road safety coordinators and police about the best ways to stay safe.
Many had decorated hats for the occasion including Bev Hanson of the Palmerston North Mobility Scooter Group who said she’s been a scooter club member for nine years following a car accident.
“I stayed up late last night to complete it, “she said.
Mobility scooter groups operate in most urban centres, providing riders with an opportunity to get together and compare notes. Anyone interested in finding out more about these groups or mobility scooter safety in the Horizons region is encouraged to contact Horizons’ road safety coordinators on toll free 0508 800 800.
Ends
Gordon Campbell: On The Hikoi Aftermath
Mana Mokopuna: Children And Young People Share Vital Insights On Healing From Family Violence And Sexual Violence In New Report
NZ Government: PM Marks One Year In Government
Helen Clark Foundation: Helen Clark Foundation Calls For Political Action To Reduce The Prevalence Of Junk Food And Improve Health Outcomes
Justice Committee: Further Decisions About Submissions Process For The Principles Of The Treaty Of Waitangi Bill
Infrastructure New Zealand: Single Agency Needed To Coordinate Climate Adaptation And Recovery
Free Speech Union: Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill Likely To Restrict Access To Information, Polling Shows Most Oppose
