How to ride personal mobility devices safely and legally in Queensland

Yes, it is possible to ride personal mobility device safely if you arm yourself with the knowledge to do so.

Personal mobility devices (PMDs) are vehicles that can be used for personal transportation or recreation.

They include e-scooters, e-skateboards, e-unicycles, and e-boards.

PMDs are becoming more popular in Queensland, but they also pose some risks and challenges for riders and other road users.

This guide will help you understand the rules and responsibilities for using PMDs in Queensland.

How to Ride Personal Mobility Device

What are the benefits of using PMDs?

• PMDs are fun, convenient, and environmentally friendly ways to get around.
• PMDs can help reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions by replacing car trips.
• PMDs can improve your health and fitness by providing physical activity and outdoor exposure.

Risks and challenges of using PMDs?

• PMDs can cause injuries to riders and pedestrians if they are not used safely and responsibly.
• PMDs can damage property or infrastructure if they are not parked properly or securely.
• PMDs can create legal and insurance issues if they are involved in accidents or incidents.

What are the rules for using PMDs in Queensland?

The rules for using PMDs in Queensland vary depending on where you ride, what type of device you use, and how you behave. You must follow these rules to avoid fines, penalties, or legal actions.

When you ride a personal mobility device, you must also:

• Use hand signals to indicate your intention to turn or stop.
• Wear a helmet that meets the Australian standards.
• Not use your phone or any other electronic device while riding.
• Not carry passengers on your device unless it is designed to carry more than one person.
• Not tow anything with your device.
• Not ride on roads with a dividing line or median strip, unless it is a separated footpath or shared path.

Where can you ride PMDs?

You can ride PMDs on:

• Footpaths and shared paths (unless signed otherwise)
• Separated paths (on the side for bicycle riders)
• Local streets (with speed limits of 50km/h or less and no dividing lines)
• Bicycle lanes (except those on the wrong side of the road)

You must not ride PMDs on:

• Roads with speed limits higher than 50km/h
• Roads with dividing lines or median strips
• Motorways or freeways
• Bicycle lanes on the wrong side of the road
• Areas where PMDs are prohibited by signs or local laws

What type of PMD can you use?

You can use PMDs that:

• Have an electric motor
• Have a maximum power output of 250 watts
• Have a maximum speed of 25km/h
• Have a maximum weight of 60kg (when not carrying a person or load)
• Have an effective braking system
• Have a working bell, horn, or similar warning device (if the device has handlebars)
• Have no sharp protrusions

You must not use PMDs that:

• Have a petrol engine
• Have a higher power output, speed, or weight than allowed
• Have no braking system
• Have no warning device (if the device has handlebars)
• Have sharp protrusions

How should you behave when riding PMDs?

• Wear an approved helmet that is securely fitted and fastened
• Keep left and give way to pedestrians and other road users
• Travel at a safe speed and distance from others
• Use hand signals or indicators when turning or changing direction
• Use lights and reflectors when riding at night or in low visibility conditions
• Park your PMD upright and stable in designated areas or on the kerbside
• Carry a load securely and safely on your PMD
• Follow the general road rules as they apply to vehicles

You must not:

• Ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Ride while using a mobile phone in your hand or resting on your body
• Ride with another person on your PMD
• Ride past a red traffic light or a stop sign
• Ride across a pedestrian crossing, unless there is a green bicycle crossing light
• Ride in a bicycle storage area, unless you enter from a bicycle lane
• Ride while being towed by another vehicle
• Ride too close to the back of a vehicle for over 200m
• Ride into the path of a driver or pedestrian

What are your rights and responsibilities as a PMD rider?

As a PMD rider, you have some rights and responsibilities that you need to be aware of. These include:

Your right to use PMDs

You have the right to use PMDs on public roads and paths as long as you comply with the rules and regulations. You also have the right to access some public facilities and services that are available for bicycle riders, such as bicycle parking areas, bicycle lockers, or public transport.

Your responsibility to protect yourself and others

You have the responsibility to protect yourself and others from harm when using PMDs. You should:

• Wear appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, pads, or shoes
• Maintain your PMD in good working condition and check it regularly for defects or damages
• Avoid riding in dangerous or hazardous situations, such as bad weather, poor lighting, or heavy traffic
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings and potential hazards
• Respect the rights and needs of other road users and path users, especially people with disabilities, children, or elderly

Your responsibility to follow the law and pay for damages

You have the responsibility to follow the law and pay for any damages that you cause when using PMDs. You should:

• Obey the road rules and the signs and signals that apply to PMDs
• Carry your identification and contact details with you when riding PMDs
• Report any accidents or incidents that involve PMDs to the police or the relevant authorities
• Cooperate with any investigations or inquiries that relate to PMDs
• Pay for any medical expenses or property damage bills that result from your actions or negligence when using PMDs

What are the legal and insurance issues related to PMDs?

PMDs are not covered by Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance schemes in Australia, as they are not considered motor vehicles. This means that if you injure someone else or damage their property while using a PMD, you may have to pay for the costs out of your own pocket, unless you have a private insurance policy that covers PMDs.

Some PMD rental companies in Australia have comprehensive insurance policies that cover their customers and third parties in case of accidents or incidents. However, these policies may have some exclusions or limitations, such as:

How to Ride Personal Mobility Device

• The rider must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license
• The rider must wear a helmet and follow the road rules
• The rider must not ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• The rider must not ride in prohibited areas or engage in illegal activities

You should read the terms and conditions of the rental agreement carefully before using a rented PMD. You should also check your own insurance policy to see if it covers PMDs or not.

How can you learn more about PMDs?

If you want to learn more on How to Ride Personal Mobility Device

• Visit the Queensland Government website for more information on the rules and regulations for PMDs in Queensland
• Contact your local council or authority to find out if there are any local laws or restrictions that apply to PMDs in your area
• Contact a personal injury lawyer or an insurance service provider if you have any questions or concerns about the legal and insurance issues related to PMDs
• Contact a PMD retailer or manufacturer if you have any questions or feedback about the features and functions of PMDs
• Join a PMD community or group if you want to share your experiences and opinions with other PMD riders

Conclusion

PMDs are an innovative and convenient way to travel and have fun. However, they also come with some risks and challenges that require your attention and care. By following this guide, you can enjoy using PMDs safely and legally in Queensland. Happy riding!

FAQS

What is a personal mobility device and why you need one ASAP?

A personal mobility device (PMD) is a motor-assisted, low-speed, lightweight device that can transport one person on footpaths, shared paths, cycleways and trails. PMDs are a great way to get around quickly, easily and sustainably.

How to choose the best PMD for your needs?

There are different types of PMDs, such as two-wheeled, three-wheeled or four-wheeled devices. Some factors to consider when choosing a PMD are: the size, weight, speed, battery life, safety features and cost of the device. You should also check the local laws and regulations for using PMDs in your area.

Where can you legally use a PMD in Australia?

The laws and regulations for using PMDs vary by state and territory. In some places, such as the ACT, PMDs are allowed on footpaths, shared paths and some roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less. In other places, such as NSW, PMDs are not allowed on public roads or footpaths unless they are exempt (such as motorised wheelchairs or power-assisted bicycles). You should always check the rules before riding a PMD in a new location.

What are the benefits of using a PMD for commuting, leisure or fitness?

Using a PMD can have many benefits for your health, wellbeing and environment. Some of the benefits are: saving time and money on transport, reducing your carbon footprint, improving your physical activity and mental health, having fun and exploring new places.

How to stay safe and responsible when using a PMD?

When using a PMD, you should always follow the road rules and respect other users of the path or road. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as a helmet, gloves and reflective clothing. You should maintain your PMD regularly and check the battery level before each ride. You should also avoid riding in bad weather conditions or at night.