There are calls for a crackdown on electric scooters following a spike in crashes and illegal behaviour.

The problem has only got worse following the recent launch of e-scooters for hire in Melbourne.

Dr Gary Mitchell is an Emergency Department specialist at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and said the increase in hospital admissions when e-scooters were introduced in Brisbane was so significant it prompted them to start recording data.

“It’s really concerning,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear him explain

Ben Rossiter is executive officer of Victoria Walks and did not mince his words when asked what he thought of e-scooters.

“They’re pests,” he said.

Mr Rossiter said he’d seen countless examples of riders not following the law, speeding and riding them on footpaths without helmets.

Press PLAY below to hear Ben Rossiter voice his concerns

Picture: Getty iStock