Mandatory bells and 12 km/h speed limits on footpaths are part of new e-scooter laws the Queensland Government will implement from November 1 to improve safety.
A new package of regulation changes includes speed limits on some footpaths, mandating warning devices, enforcement of non-complying devices, increased penalties for high-risk offences, and clearer signage.
High-risk offences – with penalties yet to be determined – will include speeding, using a mobile phone while riding and riding on prohibited roads as part of the government’s Personal Mobility Device Safety Action Plan.
Queensland police are supporting the reforms through behaviour blitzes, to ensure e-scooter riders are complying with rules and regulation.
“The blitzes aim to crack down on people riding in a dangerous manner, which might mean speeding, using a mobile phone, carrying passengers or not wearing a helmet,” Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey says.
“E-scooters are an emerging form of transport, and they aren’t going anywhere – if anything, their use continues to gain popularity with those who want to leave the car a home or connect with public transport.
“That’s why it’s important we have a plan on how we improve safety for e-scooter riders, and for those who use our cycleways, footpaths and roads.”
Mr Bailey says the action plan, developed in consultation with the Government’s Personal Mobility Device Safety Reference Group and details short, medium and long term goals.
“In the medium term, we want to finalise an improved parking plan, produced by the working group, which has already met multiple times, and rollout the signage in specific areas, which will be done over the next year.
“Getting a solution on parking is critical and that’s why we created a working group with pedestrian and disability advocates shared scheme providers and local government representatives to work on e-scooter parking solutions for pathways around the inner-city.
“This parking plan can then be adopted by councils across Queensland.
“In the long term, we want to build better active transport infrastructure, develop import rules with the federal government, and continue working with stakeholders.”
To read the plan click here
Image: Supplied
