New penalties for e-scooter riders breaking the law

The Queensland Government is cracking down on the misuse of e-scooters with new penalties for riding infringements.

The heaviest penalty will see e-scooter riders caught holding a phone slapped with a $1,078 fine.

Anyone caught riding while drinking alcohol can be fined $431.

Speeding fines will range from $143 (1–13km over the limit) to $575 (more than 30km/h over).

Unless otherwise signed, speed limits will be reduced to 12km/h on footpaths and shared paths. The 25km/h speed limit remains on bike infrastructure and local streets.

RACQ Head of Public Policy Michael Kane said the Club backed the reforms, which also apply to e-skateboards and other personal mobility devices.

“We support the government’s new rules for e-scooter use – they are fair and appropriate,” Mr Kane said.

“E-scooter users need to be aware of the dangers they cause to themselves and others on the streets and footpaths.”

Rules at a glance

• Lower speed limit of 12km/h on footpaths.
• Increased fines of up to $1,078 for dangerous offences involving speed, illegal road use and holding a mobile phone while riding.
• Bells required on handlebars.
• Access allowed to bike lanes on roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less and all on-road bike lanes that are physically separated.
• Personal mobility device riders aligned with bike riders to ensure they are required to follow general road rules, such as stopping at red lights.

RACQ was among the stakeholders consulted on the development of the reforms along with riders, rental and retail suppliers, police, Bicycle Queensland, local councils and disability advocates.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey made no apologies for cracking down on e-scooter riders caught doing the wrong thing.

“The fact of the matter is that most people who use e-scooters are doing the right thing – they are an easy, convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around,” Mr Bailey said.

“We want every person who uses our footpaths, bikeways and bike lanes to be safe from harm and these reforms go a long way in tightening the Queensland road rules around this new technology.”

Penalties

• Exceeding the speed limit: 1-13km/h = $143; 14-20km/h = $215; 20-30km/h = $359; >30km/h = $575
• Holding a phone = $1,078
• Drinking alcohol while riding = $431
• Not wearing a helmet = $143
• Doubling (riding with two or more people) = $143
• Riding on a prohibited road = $172

Click here for more information on the reforms.