The number of accidents rose from 543 in 2022 to 752 in 2024 and 1,158 last year, according to the newspaper.
Experts cited by DGP say stricter regulations, including a helmet requirement for younger teenagers, are more likely to limit the scale of the problem than tackle it effectively.
Speed is one of the main causes of accidents.
The theoretical maximum speed for electric scooters is 20 kilometres per hour. Rental scooters cannot have their speed limiters removed, but private vehicles can reportedly reach speeds comparable to those of cars travelling in built-up areas.
The newspaper says data show that children and teenagers aged 7–14 and 15–17 pose the greatest risk.
Experts say stricter rules alone will not be enough. They call for road safety education that teaches young people to consider other pedestrians and road users, anticipate their behaviour and respect them.
They also argue that manufacturers should set limits on further improvements to electric scooter performance.
(sp/gs)
Source: PAP