Two Delco children hospitalized after e-scooter crash for the second time this summer; lawmakers call for changes.
Two children from Delaware County are hospitalized following a serious accident involving an electric scooter, with one in critical condition. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening in Springfield Township, specifically on the 400 block of North Bishop Avenue, when a pickup truck collided with the boys, both aged 14, who were riding the same scooter.
This unfortunate event recalls a tragic incident from June, where two girls, 12-year-old Abigail Gillon and 11-year-old Isabella Jones from Ridley Township, were struck while riding together on an electric scooter in Aston. Gillon later succumbed to her injuries, prompting a renewed focus on scooter safety in the community. The incident has reignited discussions around “Abby’s Law,” proposed legislation that aims to implement stricter regulations and safety measures for electric scooters, which have become increasingly popular across the nation.
Ron Kralle, uncle of Abigail Gillon and the administrator of the Abby’s Law Facebook page, noted the unsettling similarity of this recent crash to his niece’s tragic accident. Since June, Kralle has emerged as a prominent advocate for stricter regulations governing the use of electric scooters. The Facebook page dedicated to Abby’s Law has rapidly gained attention, amassing around 3,000 followers in a short period, with messages of support pouring in from concerned parents as far away as Florida.
Current Pennsylvania law prohibits the use of electric scooters on public roadways, although enforcement of this regulation varies by municipality. In Ridley Township, where Gillon was injured, officials reminded residents of local ordinances disallowing electric scooters on roadways and sidewalks. Conversely, Springfield lacks specific ordinances governing e-scooters but enforces existing state laws.
Lieutenant David DiTrolio of the Springfield Police Department expressed concern regarding the prevalence of electric scooters, noting their widespread use on busy roads. Following the Springfield incident, the condition of the two boys remains under assessment. The child in critical condition has suffered significant injuries, while the other boy endured bruising and a likely broken arm.
State Senator Tim Kearney, a supporter of Abby’s Law, aims to integrate e-scooters into Pennsylvania’s motor vehicle code, simplifying local restrictions. His proposed legislation would enforce age limits and speed requirements for scooter usage, a measure he believes will enhance safety for young riders. The bill also proposes a public awareness campaign to educate both riders and drivers on electric scooter regulations.
While Kearney anticipates some opposition to his proposed legislation—especially from adult commuters reliant on e-scooters—he emphasizes the necessity of protecting young users. Kralle, for his part, has experienced both support and criticism for advocating increased regulatory measures but remains steadfast in his commitment to improving safety for all scooter riders. As these discussions unfold, the need for actionable safety protocols remains a pressing concern for communities across Delaware County and beyond.
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