A British backpacker has been sentenced to four years in prison following a tragic e-scooter accident that resulted in the death of a father-of-two in Perth, Australia. Alicia Kemp, 25, from Redditch, Worcestershire, was found guilty of dangerous driving causing death while under the influence of alcohol.

The Incident and Legal Proceedings

The accident occurred in May when Kemp, riding an e-scooter at speeds between 20 to 25 km/h (12 to 15 mph), collided with 51-year-old Thanh Phan on a Perth pavement. Kemp, who was significantly over the legal alcohol limit, had been drinking with a friend throughout the afternoon. Phan succumbed to a brain bleed in the hospital two days after the collision. Kemp's passenger also sustained injuries, including a fractured skull and broken nose, though they were not life-threatening.

Kemp appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court in August, where she pleaded guilty to the charges. Judge Wendy Hughes, in her sentencing, emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating, "E-scooters are not toys." Kemp's sentence was backdated to June, and she will be eligible for parole after serving two years. Additionally, her driving license has been suspended for two years.

Impact on E-Scooter Regulations

The case has brought e-scooter safety into the national spotlight in Australia. In response, Perth and several surrounding councils have suspended e-scooter hire services indefinitely. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety regulations, which in Western Australia include wearing helmets, being sober, carrying no passengers, and being over the age of 16.

Family and Community Reactions

Thanh Phan's family described him as a "beloved husband, father of two, and dear friend," highlighting the personal loss experienced by those close to him. The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of dangerous driving and the need for responsible behavior on the roads.