Tier Mobility has unveiled an in-app accuracy test designed to deter e-scooter riders from ‘drink-riding’ and to point them toward an alternative form of transport if they have been drinking alcohol.
The test, which is now available for IOS riders in some of Tier’s operating cities, has been developed following research conducted by behavioural and insights consultancy InnovationBubble to ensure it addresses behavioural changes that occur when alcohol is consumed.
It also comes after research in Oslo found that four in 10 of all injuries on e-scooters involved intoxicated riders.
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Designed to encourage riders to check their sobriety, the test asks them to match the angle of their phone with an angle displayed on a screen. The rider will be asked to do this three times within a set time frame.
If a rider passes all three screens within the allotted time frame, they will be able to take a Tier vehicle. If they fail, riders will be encouraged to use an alternative method of transport.
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It plans to do so by integrating links to taxi companies or public transport options into the ‘fail screen’ of the app.
Kate Barnes, head of safety and inclusion at Tier, said: “The safety of our riders and other road users is always our number one priority at Tier.
“By working with behavioural experts, our new in-app test provides yet another way to help riders stay safe.”
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The test is the latest safety feature Tier has introduced into its app to encourage responsible riding and follows the share mobility provider’s partnership with ride-hailing app Free Now, which directs riders to book a taxi via the app if riders confirm they have been drinking.
Tier has also introduced a safety pricing feature, which means riders in London are not charged when vehicles are stationary during trips, further discouraging reckless riding.
