DeMari Disna, a six-year-old boy from Steinbach, is confined indoors for the remaining weeks of summer following a collision with an electric bike. The incident occurred while he was out with his older sisters and friends on a walking trail near a soccer park close to his residence.
DeMari was struck by a youth riding an e-bike, leading to a visit to Bethesda Regional Health Centre where he endured a 19-hour wait for a soft cast. Medical examination revealed fractures in both the tibia and fibula of his left leg, necessitating a transfer to the Children’s Hospital in Winnipeg for a hard cast.
His mother, Shannon Broesky, mentioned that DeMari, known for his high energy, is handling the situation well despite feeling bored due to his restricted movement. Broesky was not present during the accident but was informed by her daughters that a teenage girl accidentally collided with DeMari, trapping him under the e-bike.
Following the incident, Broesky is advocating for enhanced regulations concerning e-bikes after witnessing several near-misses in the area. The Manitoba government is currently working on legislation related to battery-powered bikes and scooters.
Transportation Minister Lisa Naylor expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the government’s commitment to reviewing and updating regulations to ensure public safety. Mayor Earl Funk of Steinbach emphasized the need for stricter regulations, citing the potential dangers posed by fast-moving e-bikes in inexperienced hands.
Meanwhile, Morden has implemented its own bylaws, including mandatory helmet use and adherence to traffic signals, to regulate the use of electric vehicles. Mayor Nancy Penner highlighted the necessity for clearer guidelines at the provincial level, particularly regarding age restrictions for e-bike and e-scooter operation.
Broesky is considering filing a report with the authorities to document the incident but emphasized her focus on accountability rather than confrontation. DeMari expressed forgiveness towards the teenager involved in the accident, promoting a message of understanding and compassion in the community.