Dodgy e-scooter riders slapped with hundreds of fines

Hundreds of e-scooter riders have been slapped with hefty fines in two months, after new laws came in targeting helmets, speeding and carrying passengers.

Hundreds of e-scooter riders have been slapped with hefty fines in the past two months, after new laws came into force targeting dangerous practices.

Changes to drink driving rules for personal mobility devices have also been flagged, with the government expected to announce the reduction of blood alcohol limits in the coming months.

Since November 1 more than 430 people have been hit with a $143 fine for not wearing a helmet, 161 with a $173 fine for riding on a prohibited road and more than 50 for going over the speed limit – which can carry a penalty up to $575.

Other riders were nabbed for having more than one rider and 23 e-scooter users got stung for not stopping at a red light.

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said it was critical people followed the rules to keep themselves – and others – safe.

“While we want people to be able to use these devices, it’s important they’re safe for the riders and those they interact with,” he said.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey. Pic: John Gass

“A lot of work has gone into making sure these rules are best practice for the safety of both the rider and other path and road users around them.

“They aren’t rocket science. They’re not hard to follow. But they will make a big difference to everyone’s safety.”

Mr Bailey said more changes would be coming, and would be targeting those riders who use alcohol, and then ride.

“Significant consultation with stakeholders from the PMD industry, health sector and all types of path and road users, disability advocates, local councils, RACQ and police was conducted in developing these rules – the most comprehensive in Australia,” he said.

Queensland Police Service North Highway Patrol Senior Constable Duncan Hill said officers would be out in force across the state, educating and dishing out fines when needed.

“I want to remind everyone that while these devices may have appeared under the Christmas tree, they’re not toys,” he said.

Senior constable Duncan Hill says people need to be aware of other pedestrians when riding e-scooters. Pic: John Gass

“We ask that everyone obey the road rules, look after themselves and the other path users – that’s the important thing. It’s also about the other people using the infrastructure, the pedestrians, the people walking their dog, and the children on footpaths.

“We ask that everyone remember that they are part of the road network. We want everyone to be safe.”

Senior Constable Hill said while people riding e-scooters might think they are doing the right thing by using those personal vehicles rather than driving after a few drinks, they were at risk of breaking the law.

“We want to remind people that as a vehicle, riding these while under the influence is still an offence, and one that you can be prosecuted,” he said.