In a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with irresponsible e-scooter use, a 57-year-old man, Xu Siwen, has been sentenced to two weeks in prison for colliding with a couple while riding his e-scooter under the influence of alcohol.
The incident, which occurred on May 27, 2023, near Block 165 Yishun Ring Road, resulted in injuries to the couple and an attempt by the accused to flee the scene, according to Shin Min Daily News.
Xu Siwen faced charges of reckless behavior endangering the safety of others and contravening the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015. The dual charges reflect both the physical harm caused by the collision and the violation of laws related to alcohol consumption.
IThe Incident Unfolds
On the day of the incident, the couple, also riding e-scooters, encountered Xu speeding towards them. Despite the wife instructing her husband to stop and make way for Xu, the accused did not slow down. Instead, he collided with the couple, knocking them down and causing injuries.
The collision left the husband with a fractured left ankle, requiring 10 days of medical leave. The wife sustained a bruise on her left foot, resulting in a medical leave of five days. The severity of the injuries highlights the recklessness of Xu’s actions and the potential dangers of e-scooter accidents.
Instead of stopping to assist the injured couple, Xu chose to accelerate and flee the scene. A group of teenagers playing sepak takraw nearby witnessed the incident and, recognizing the gravity of the situation, chased after Xu in an attempt to apprehend him.
While the teenagers initially failed in their pursuit, their determination led them to discover Xu lying drunk on the ground about a kilometer away from the scene. Recognizing the need for legal intervention, one of the teenagers promptly called the police, ensuring that Xu would be held accountable for his actions.
VII. Legal Ramifications
Xu Siwen’s sentencing to two weeks in prison underscores the legal consequences of his reckless behavior. The charges of endangering the safety of others and violating alcohol consumption laws serve as a deterrent, emphasizing society’s intolerance for such irresponsible conduct.