Lime scooter rider busted for allegedly riding drunk, running red light

A Lime scooter rider has been charged with drink driving after allegedly returning a blood alcohol concentration of 0.174 per cent – 3½ times the legal limit.

Police said the 43-year-old Newstead man was arrested on James Street on Saturday night after he was riding the scooter on the road, without a helmet, and failed to stop at a red light.

A man has been charged with drink riding on Lime scooter at the weekend. Credit: AAP Image/ Albert Perez

He was set to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on February 6.

A police spokesman reminded those who ride electronic scooters that drink-driving laws apply.

"The Queensland Police Service will not hesitate to take enforcement action against anyone found to be riding an electronic scooter whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs," the spokesman said.

"Queensland road rules also state that all personal mobility device users must wear an approved helmet."

Hundreds of Lime’s electric powered scooters were rolled out across Brisbane in November to a mixed reception.

Some people welcomed them as a good way to make Brisbane a more accessible city, while others were concerned they posed serious safety risks.

While the legal speed limit for the scooters is 25km/h, they can travel up to 29km/h.

They can be found and hired using a map on Lime's mobile app, rather than left at a docking station, such is the case with CityCycles.

The company behind the controversial scooters tried to roll them out on the Gold Coast just before the new year but were ordered by council to remove scooters two hours after they were launched.

A Lime spokeswoman said safety was the company's number one priority.

"By signing up and jumping on a Lime scooter you are agreeing to follow the road rules, including not drink riding and wearing a helmet," she said.

"Those who do the wrong thing will clearly face consequences, just like if they were driving a car."