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Can You Take E-Scooters On Buses, Trains And Trams In Victoria?
E-scooters have rapidly gained popularity in Victoria as a convenient new form of urban mobility. Their compact size makes them easy to carry onto public transport to connect trips across Melbourne and regional cities. However, rules exist around whether you can take e-scooters aboard buses, trains and trams in Victoria. This article examines the regulations.
What’s The Current Law On Public Transport E-Scooter Access In Victoria?
In Victoria, e-scooters fall under the Road Safety Road Rules 2017 which aligns with national standards. Key factors:
- E-scooters are classified as ‘wheeled recreational devices’.
- Usage on public transport is determined by transport operators.
- Foldable e-scooters may be permitted if carried aboard and folded.
- Non-foldable e-scooters are generally prohibited on public transport.
- Local council and transit authority rules may also apply.
Can You Take E-Scooters On Buses In Victoria?
- Metropolitan buses – Foldable e-scooters are allowed if carried on board and folded up. Non-foldable e-scooters are banned.
- Regional buses – Vary by operator. Some allow foldable e-scooters, others prohibit all types. Check with provider.
- School buses – Generally do not allow e-scooters of any type due to policy and space constraints.
- Tourist buses – May permit or prohibit depending on the operator. Ask before boarding.
- Private buses – Up to the bus company policy. Expect foldable e-scooters to be allowed if carried aboard.
Can You Take E-Scooters On Trains In Victoria?
- Metro trains – Foldable e-scooters permitted if folded up. Non-foldable prohibited.
- V/Line trains – Allow foldable e-scooters as long as they don’t obstruct aisles or doors.
- Light rail – Foldable e-scooters permitted on board trams if carried and folded.
- Tourist trains – Operator dependent. Most allow foldable e-scooters if not obstructing.
- Heritage trains – Vary by provider and available space. Ask before boarding.
Can You Take E-Scooters On Trams In Victoria?
- Melbourne trams – Foldable e-scooters are permitted if carried and stowed on board neatly.
- Regional trams – Limited regional tram networks exist. Foldable e-scooters likely permitted aboard if folded up.
- Light rail – Allowed on board vehicles if folded up and clear of doors/aisles.
- Historic trams – Check provider policy. If space allows, foldable e-scooters may be permitted.
Why Are E-Scooters Sometimes Prohibited On Public Transport In Victoria?
- Safety concerns – Could potentially obstruct aisles and doors.
- Limited space – Adding e-scooters takes room away from passengers.
- Damage risk – Impacts to scooters and public property if they fall.
- Boarding delays – Time taken to carry scooters on causes delays.
- Disembarking issues – Creates bottlenecks as people exit with scooters.
- Access problems – Blocking ramps and priority seating access an issue.
- Hygiene concerns – Scooter wheels traipsing dirt through vehicles.
What Are The Penalties For Taking E-Scooters On Public Transport In Victoria?
- Authorised officers can prohibit non-foldable e-scooters being taken aboard buses, trains and trams in Victoria.
- Bringing a banned e-scooter on public transport is an offence under the Transport (Compliance and Miscellaneous) Act 1983.
- Fines of up to $248 may apply to individuals breaching e-scooter carriage rules. Higher penalties exist for repeat offences.
- E-scooters brought illegally aboard may also be confiscated and impounded by transit officers.
Conclusion
In summary, foldable e-scooters are generally permitted on Victorian public transport if carried and stowed appropriately. Non-foldable e-scooters are prohibited due to safety and space constraints. Knowing the rules on whether you can bring an e-scooter aboard buses, trains and trams is important to avoid fines or confiscation.
FAQs
Can I take my e-scooter on a train?
Only foldable e-scooters are permitted on trains if carried and folded up. Non-foldable e-scooters are banned.
What about taking e-scooters on trams and light rail?
Foldable e-scooters are allowed aboard trams if folded up. Non-foldable e-scooters are prohibited.
Are e-scooters allowed on metropolitan buses in Melbourne?
Foldable e-scooters can be taken aboard and folded up. Non-foldable e-scooters are not allowed.
Can I take an e-scooter on V/Line regional trains?
Yes, you can take foldable e-scooters on V/Line trains as long as they don’t obstruct doors or aisles.
What fines apply for taking a banned e-scooter on public transport?
Fines of up to $248 apply. E-scooters may also be confiscated by authorised officers.