Police have launched a crackdown on dangerous and illegal use of e-scooters and e-bikes in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, warning that parents could face fines or charges if their children are caught riding unlawfully.
Operation Raptor Wheelie in Maroochydore comes amid rising concerns over unlicensed and reckless behaviour, often involving modified devices and young riders, and aims to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on local roads.
The operation, which includes high-visibility and covert patrols, will run until the end of the year. It includes a focus on educating parents around their responsibilities and the consequences they face when permitting their child’s illegal use of an electric device.
The operation will involve police engagements with local high schools, as well as investigating reports of illegal and dangerous use of e-scooters and e-bikes posted on social media or reported by the public to identify offenders.
Maroochydore Police Station Sergeant Ryan Cole said police were working towards reducing the road trauma.
“The main issues we see on e-scooters and e-bikes are unlicensed driving of an unregistered vehicle, speeding and dangerous driving, including wheelies, swerving in and out of traffic, driving the wrong way on roads and illegal modifications of the devices,” he said.
“For a device to be considered an e-bike, pedals must be the primary source of power and have a maximum continuous motor output of 250 watts. If it does not comply with that the e-bike is considered a motorbike, which requires the driver to have a licence and the bike to be registered and insured.
“These devices can be powerful and, when driven dangerously by an unlicensed and inexperienced driver, can be deadly.
“The focus of this operation isn’t to issue fines or charges but to reduce the amount of road trauma we see as a result of dangerous use of e-scooters and e-bikes.
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“But if we have to arrest or fine drivers, or their parents, for them to understand the gravity of the responsibility they have on the road, and their illegal behaviour, then we will have to. This is about saving lives.
“Parents can and will be fined or charged for permitting their child’s dangerous or illegal use of an e-scooter or e-bike.
“I urge parents to become familiar with the regulations and road rules relevant to the device their child is using and work with their child to understand and respect those rules.
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“We have seen significant trauma, life-changing injuries and fatalities from e-scooters and e-bikes and I urge the community to work with us in stopping this trend for the safety of our children and all road users.
“Parents – we ask you work with us to ensure the safety of your child.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day. Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online.
