New limits, fines, for Queensland e-scooters
Richard Dinnen - Queensland Editor |
New rules for e-scooters come in to force on Tuesday, with reduced speed limits and increased fines aiming to improve personal mobility device (PMD) safety.
PMDs include e-scooters, e-skateboards, and segways. They’re an increasingly popular way to travel but safety has been a growing concern.
Ten people have died in PMD incidents, and thousands have presented to hospital emergency departments for injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and head injuries.
From Tuesday, the PMD speed limit comes down to 12km/h on footpaths and shared paths. The 25km/h limit remains for all other bike paths and on roads.
Fines will increase for offences involving speed, illegal road use, and holding a mobile phone while riding.
It will now be compulsory to have a bell on all PMDs to warn other riders and pedestrians of your approach.
PMD riders will also be required to follow general road rules, such as stopping at red lights, as drivers and cyclists are required to do.
Sergeant Duncan Hill said police will be educating PMG riders about the changes.
“While the Government has increased the fines, we will be out conducting engagement and education events, to ensure riders are aware of the new rules and to ensure that they’re applied fairly.
“We want to make sure those on the roads and on the footpaths are safe.
“Slow down, wear a helmet, and remember that they’re not toys.
“The new rules aren’t a crackdown. This is just further development, and recognition that PMDs are now common on the footpaths around Queensland.
“Since these devices came in in 2018, the speeds they travel at have increased, and their capabilities have increased.
“These new rules highlight those changes and seek to mitigate those to make everyone safe.”
Transport and Main Roads General Manager of Land Transport Safety and Regulation, Andrew Mahon said the new rules are designed to improve safety.
“We’re going to see the first major increase in penalties and rule changes for PMDs since their inception in Queensland in 2018.
“The key focus is reduced speeds, increased speeding fines, increased fines for other dangerous behaviours, and mandatory bells.
“We’re making sure we’re giving more options for people in relation to helmets, using motorcycle helmets as well as bicycle helmets, given their increased safety.”
