Roads around Bundaberg and the Burnett will be safer following the rollout of new measures to better regulate e-scooters.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has welcomed the reforms after receiving numerous calls regarding near misses, crashes and accidents involving e-scooters.
“It’s great to hear that our calls for regulations are being answered,” he said.
“E-scooters have certainly risen in popularity and it’s fantastic to see another mode of public transport offered around the Wide Bay.
“However, it’s vital we ensure people are not abusing the new transport by putting themselves or others at risk.
“Whistle-blowers at our local hospitals have indicated that the number of injuries caused by e-scooters are alarming, with medical intervention often necessary.
“Your safety is our number one priority which is why I’m thrilled to see our calls for reform have been answered.
“The new laws will introduce lower speeds on footpaths, mandated safety measures, a safety education campaign and clearer signage and markings.”
E-Scooter Reforms
- Slashing footpath speed limits in half, to 12km/h
- Proactive safety campaign to inform users of road rules, parking and their responsibilities
- Partner with industry for a new e-scooter users guide at point of sale (privately owned e-scooters)
- Mandate warning devices (such as a bell)
- Establish an e-scooter parking working group to create clear rules for e-scooter parking to keep footpaths clear for pedestrians and people with disabilities
- Allowing e-scooters on segregated bikeways, including the Veloway
- Examine further e-scooter use on shared bikeways and on road bike lanes, pending further stakeholder and local government consultation
- Improved data recording and injury reporting
- Improved signage and markings
- Road rule amendments
- Creation of high-risk e-scooter offences, including drink and drug driving penalties, through legislative reforms
- Cracking down on dangerous and irresponsible e-scooter behaviour such as speeding through tougher enforcement and appropriate penalties
ENDS.
21/02/2022