Qld to crack down on e-scooters with speed limits, drink driving charges

Queensland has announced new rules on footpaths, including enforceable speed limits, after pedestrians reported feeling unsafe because of the high numbers of e-scooters.

Queensland will roll out new e-scooter rules, including enforceable speed limits and a crackdown on drink-riding.

With e-scooters becoming more popular, especially in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Palaszczuk government announced on Sunday that new rules would be rolled out to ensure footpaths and bike lanes were safer for not only e-scooter riders, but also cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians.

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said the maximum speeds on scooters would be slashed to just 12 km/h on footpaths – half of the current limit, while e-scooters would also be able to use dedicated bike lanes and veloways to free up footpaths.

In addition, high-risk e-scooter offences, including drink and drug driving penalties will be created and undergo legislative reforms.

Queensland will crackdown on e-scooter riders to ensure footpaths are safer for all users. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Andrew Henshaw

Mr Bailey said all users of roads and footpaths needed to feel safe.

“We’re finding a lot of pedestrians feel threatened when scooters go too fast and they feel unsafe,” he said.

“One issue I was concerned about is people with disabilities are feeling so threatened (by scooters) that they’re moving around in the communities less, especially people with vision impairments.”

Mr Bailey the government would work with local councils to ensure there were adequate signs to “make it very clear” where e-scooters can and cannot be ridden, and where they can be parked.

An education campaign focusing on rider safety, helmets, overtaking pedestrians and suitably parking will also be rolled out.

“It’s the right of every pedestrian to have clear footpaths,” Mr Bailey said.

“We’re committed to working with local governments to ensure these safety things are looked after.”

Originally published as Qld to crack down on e-scooters with speed limits, drink driving charges