ICA advises owners of e-bikes and e-scooters to check insurance cover

ICA advises owners of e-bikes and e-scooters to check insurance cover | Insurance Business Australia

Insurance News

CEO notes fires have been reported by owners carelessly using or storing their devices

Insurance News

By
Jonalyn Cueto

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is urging owners of e-bikes and e-scooters to review their insurance coverage in the lead up to the holiday season.

The ICA said e-scooters and e-bikes offer convenience and are a form of urban mobility that are often cost-effective and environment-friendly compared to traditional transportation. However, they noted they also carry the risk of catching fire as they are operated using lithium ion batteries.

“The growing popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes underscores the need for users to be aware of the potential risks and implement safety measures,” said Andrew Hall, CEO of ICA. “We are seeing now too regularly fires caused by owners who are careless using, charging, and storing their devices, resulting in serious injuries and damaging assets.”

They are advising owners to ensure their devices are stored and being recharged safely to minimise potential risks as well as to review their insurance policies if they have coverage.

The ICA has advised the following:

Ensure the insurance policy provides sufficient coverage to rebuild or replace the home and contents in the event of a fire
Store these devices in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials, and avoid charging them indoors
Have a conversation with your strata committee or landlord as some apartment buildings or body corporates may impose some requirements for e-scooter or e-bike owners to have a higher level of insurance coverage

“Owners and landlords must ensure they have adequate insurance coverage to safeguard against unforeseen incidents,” said Hall. “With Christmas just around the corner and with many households looking to electric devices as gift ideas, now is the time to make sure your insurance coverage is up to date and you have a good understanding of the risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters.”

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