Personal mobility devices including electric scooters and wheels have recently begun to rise rapidly as a means of transportation at universities; you could even witness more scooters than cars.

However, most people are not aware of the proper way to take advantage of them. It’s not hard to see people riding scooters without proper protective gear. Also, two or more people are often riding on a single scooter. Riders sometimes drive while listening to songs on their earphones.

A 23-year-old college student said, “When I was riding in a car, the electric scooter came out of the sidewalk and almost hit my car. He seemed to be crossing the street. If I hadn’t slowed down, there would have been an accident.”

According to the Road Traffic Act, electric scooters are classfied as “motorized bicycle.” In other words, drivers must not drive without a license, and scooters are supposed to run on the road. However, driving on the road can be dangerous for the scooter driver, while driving on the sidewalk can be dangerous for passers-by.

Statistics have shown that a total of 225 traffic accidents involving electric scooters were reported last year. That is double the amount form 2017. More and more accidents are expected due to the increase in kickboard sharing companies. A company called ‘G-bility’ is one of the services at Daegu University.

In response to the spreading electric scooters, Daegu University installed notification banners all over the school to raise awareness of how to ride properly. This includes ① the limitation of the in-school speed of 15km/h ② prohibiting a double-occupancy and drunk driving ③ prohibiting cellphone use ④ drivers must posses a proper license ⑤ drivers must wear safety gear ⑥ the scooter must be stored in a bicycle rack, not inside of buildings.

However, such regulations by the school itself will likely have little effect. To establish a safe transportation culture, the government should actively improve the system and strengthen safety management.

L.L.F reporter Suk-Ho Jung