A man has been left in critical condition after crashing his e-scooter on a poorly lit street in Dee Why, raising serious safety concerns in the Northern Beaches community.
Emergency Response and Hospitalisation
The incident happened just after 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, 24 June, on May Road. Emergency crews responded to reports that the man, believed to be in his 50s or 60s, had suffered a major fall after hitting a pothole. He was found unconscious with serious head injuries.
NSW Ambulance paramedics rushed to the scene alongside the Toll Rescue Helicopter and a specialist medical team. After stabilising the man at the site, they placed him in an induced coma. Due to the critical nature of his injuries, he was taken by road to Royal North Shore Hospital for further treatment.
Paramedics confirmed that the man had suffered significant trauma. Authorities said he was not accompanied by anyone at the time, and the crash is believed to have occurred at high speed.
Uneven Road Conditions Blamed
At the time of the crash, road resurfacing works were underway in the area. Residents nearby told local media that the road surface was uneven, and lighting was limited along parts of May Road. It’s believed the rider struck a pothole caused by the works, causing the scooter to flip and throw him onto the roadway.
Police say the scene showed clear signs of impact consistent with a fall from an e-scooter. Early investigations have not confirmed whether the man was wearing a helmet or if the scooter was privately owned or part of a shared fleet.
Police Investigation Underway
Northern Beaches Police Area Command has launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Officers are looking at road conditions, the presence of warning signs, the man’s speed, and whether safety gear was used.
No other vehicle was involved, and officers have not reported any eyewitnesses so far. Authorities are appealing to the public for information or dashcam footage that may help explain what happened in the moments before the fall.
Community Concerns and Calls for Safety
The crash has renewed concerns about e-scooter safety in the Northern Beaches. Residents have raised issues around helmet use, speeding, and footpath riding.
Seniors in particular have called for stricter rules and better infrastructure. With usage on the rise, locals want a safer balance between access and road conditions.
Published 03-July-2025