Essential Facts for E-Riders
As the popularity of Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs), particularly electric scooters, continues to grow in Queensland, Australia, it's crucial for riders to understand the rules and regulations in place since they have been changed as well as their penalties increased when not following them properly.
The Queensland government website, Streetsmarts, provides essential information for riders to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the electric scooter rules in Queensland and what riders need to know.
Classification as a Vehicle and Road Rules
First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that electric scooters are classified as a type of vehicle and must follow the same road rules as bicycles. This means that riders must use bike lanes and wear helmets when required. It's important to remember that electric scooters are not toys and riders must be responsible and aware of their surroundings at all times.
Usage on Footpaths
Electric scooters are allowed on footpaths as long as you are riding at a speed limit of 12km/h. Even though electric scooters are allowed on footpaths and shared paths, riders must still follow the road rules and be aware of their surroundings. If you go over the speed limit, fines of $500 or more may apply.
Speed Limits on Roads and Bike Lanes
The maximum speed you are allowed to ride anywhere in Queensland is 25km/h. Riders must not use electric scooters on roads with a speed limit greater than 50 km/h. This is to ensure the safety of the riders, as well as other road users and pedestrians. When using electric scooters on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or lower, riders must still follow the road rules and be aware of their surroundings. Fines of more than $500 may apply.
E-scooter rider minimum age
Electric scooters are designed for riders at 16 years of age, or 12 to 15 years with adult supervision. It is not allowed to double up, escooters are built for one person at a time. It is against the law to carry children or any other person. Fines of more than $100 apply.
Other illegal activities
Holding your mobile phone with you is illegal and can get you a $1,000 fine. You shouldn’t have it resting in any part of your body while riding either. Don’t drink and drive. If you take the risk, you can end up in court. For you and others, it is illegal and extremely dangerous to ride intoxicated.
Warning Devices and Lighting
Electric scooters must have a functional warning device, such as a bell or horn, and have appropriate lighting when used at night. This helps to make riders more visible to other road users, especially when riding in low-light conditions.
"Electric Scooter Rules in Queensland" are crucial for riders to understand for a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether using electric scooters for commuting, leisure, or any other reason, it's essential to be aware of your state’s rules and regulations in place and the potential risks associated with electric scooter usage.
The Queensland government's Streetsmarts website provides important information for riders, including the electric scooter rules and you can check them all on their website.
Penalties estimation in Queensland for e-scooter riders:
Exceeding the speed limit of 1- 13 km/h: more than $140
Exceeding the speed limit of 14 - 20km/h: more than $200
Exceeding the speed limit of 20 - 30km/h: more than $350
Exceeding the speed limit of >30 km/h: more than $570
Not wearing a helmet: more than $140
Doubling: more than $140
Using a mobile phone: more than $1,070
Drinking liquor while riding: $430
Riding on a prohibited road: more than $1,720
*Fines can change each year, so check the Government website for updates