Electric bikes and E‑Scooters

E-Scooters

It is up to all of us to keep our roads and footpaths safe. Here’s some rules to help minimise the chance of a crash and the risk of serious injury. Significant fines apply, in some cases more than $1,250.

Key rules and requirements

  • Must be 16 years or older to ride unsupervised
  • Children ages 12 to 15 can ride only under adult supervision
  • Passengers are not allowed; this includes parents doubling with children
  • Always wear a helmet and fasten the straps
  • Don’t drink and ride
  • Leave your phone alone when riding
  • Be visible at night (light and reflector)

  • Warn pedestrians as you approach.

 Speed limits

  • 12 kilometres an hour on footpaths and shared paths
  • 25 kilometres an hour on bike paths and roads.

Road rules

  • General road rules apply
  • Stop and help at the scene of a crash
  • Provide information after a crash
  • Avoid careless riding. 

Electric bikes (E-bikes)

E-bikes only give electric power assistance and must still be primarily powered by pedals. You must follow the bicycle road rules and obey the general road rules. 

What makes an e-bike legal

  • Pedals are primary source of power
  • Motor assistance up to 25 kilometres per hour
  • Maximum continuous motor output 250 watts

Most legal e-bikes comply with the standard for Electric Power Assisted Bicycles (EPAC) EN151594. Look out for a compliance sticker on the bike like the below. 

Example of a e-bike compliance sticker

Key rules to follow

E-bike riders must follow all general road rules just like all bicycle riders. This includes obeying signs and traffic lights as well as give way rules. 

  • Always wear a helmet
  • Give way to pedestrians on paths
  • Leave your phone alone
  • Only carry passengers if bike designed to do so
  • Obey give way and stop signs
  • Follow traffic lights
  • Don’t drink and ride
  • Ring your bell to warn pedestrians
  • No riding on motorways or where no bicycle signs are installed
  • Stay at the scene of a crash and exchange details
  • Speed limits apply.

More information

For more information please visit StreetSmarts.

For more information on safely charging your device, and warning signs for fire risk please visit: Lithium-ion battery safety: take charge | Queensland Fire Department

 

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