At least four e-scooter riders have died on Queensland roads this year so far, prompting police and government officials to ramp up calls for safer riding behaviour.
As per data released between November 2022 and December 2024, police issued over 2,700 fines to personal mobility device (PMD) users for unlawful practices.
More than 65 percent of these infringements were related to riding without helmets, transporting passengers, or using the devices in prohibited areas.
So far this year, 1,094 fines have already been issued for not wearing helmets. In 2024, a total of eight people lost their lives while using e-scooters or e-bikes.
Current Queensland laws restrict PMD use to roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less, and the devices are banned from highways and major thoroughfares.
Riders must limit their speed to 12 km/h on footpaths and no more than 25 km/h on roads and cycleways. Children under 12 are prohibited from riding PMDs, while those under 15 must be supervised by an adult.
State Inquiry Probes Soaring PMD Injuries
The state government has also launched a parliamentary inquiry into PMD use following a 112 percent surge in injuries since 2021.Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said the Crisafulli government was committed to improving safety.
“We have heard the concerns of the community about injuries and fatalities linked to unsafe and illegal e-scooter and e-bike use,” Minister Mickelberg said.
He added that current regulations were inadequate and that a new framework is needed.
Public submissions to the inquiry are open until June 20, with residents invited to share their experiences.
“We have heard the concerns of the community about injuries and fatalities linked to unsafe and illegal e-scooter and e-bike use,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“We’re calling on Queenslanders to share their views, whether you’re a parent, a commuter, a health expert, or part of the e-mobility industry.”
