Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) or rideables, are subject to rule changes from November 1.
These are most known as e-scooters, e-bicycles, e-skateboards or self-balancing one or two-wheel devices.
“These rule changes are designed to encourage the safe use of PMDs in our community and to discourage bad behaviour,” Officer-in-Charge of Highway Patrol, Senior Sergeant Shane Panoho, said.
What is changing?
- Reducing the speed limit to 12km/h on footpaths and shared paths, unless otherwise signed. The 25km/h limit applies everywhere else, including bike lanes and local streets.
- Increased fines of up to $1,078 for dangerous offences involving speed, use on prohibited roads, and holding a mobile phone while riding.
- Fines for speeding over the relevant speed limit:
1-13km/h = $143
14-20km/h = $215
20-30km/h = $359
Greater than 30km/h = $575
- Allowing personal mobility devices to be ridden in bike lanes on roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less, and all on-road bike lanes that are physically separated.
- Personal mobility device riders, like bike riders, must follow road rules such as stopping at red lights.
- Bells must be used on personal mobility devices with handlebars.
There is a broad range of these PMDs being used in public spaces on the Sunshine Coast so you must abide by the new rules to use them. At this stage a PMD or Rideable does not have to be registered.
Sunshine Coast Highway Patrol are currently executing a specific PMD operation which aims to enforce legislation and educate all PMD owners and riders on the new rules.
There will be random road watches at school zones, roads, road related areas and footpaths. When using a foot path, it is expected that PMDs are to be respectful, give way, keep left and ride in a safe manner around pedestrians. You must not carry passengers on a PMD.
For all rules regarding these devices go to https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/rules/wheeled-devices/personal-mobility-devices
