Is an e-scooter or e-bike on your child’s Christmas wish list this year?
Queensland Police Service is urging parents to understand their legal responsibilities when considering gifting an e-scooter or e-bike this Christmas.
QPS reminds families that purchasing an e-mobility device does not grant children permission to ride unsupervised.
As personal mobility devices rise in popularity across Queensland, police are reinforcing that safe use begins at home, with parents and carers making informed choices when it comes to understanding the rules and legislation, as well as actively supervising young riders.
This Christmas message comes after the launch of Operation X-Ray Surety, which encouraged the community to think ahead, stay informed, and take steps to reduce road trauma and protect the most vulnerable road users.
Tragically, 13 lives have been lost on Queensland roads while riding e-mobility devices so far this year.
Road Policing Group Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler reiterates that while e-scooters and e-bikes can be exciting gifts, they require active parental oversight, not a ‘set-and-forget’ approach.
“E-scooters and e-bikes might look like the perfect Christmas surprise, but they come with responsibilities,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
“Buying an e-mobility device doesn’t give your child free rein to ride it whenever or however they want – it means you, as the parent or carer, need to know the rules and supervise them appropriately.
“Supervision isn’t optional, it’s part of keeping them safe. If a young rider breaks the rules, it will not only result in enforcement action, but it is dangerous to themselves and other road and pathway users.”
Police continue to see risky behaviour among inexperienced riders, and remind families that safe riding includes:
• wearing an approved helmet
• riding responsibly and following the road rules
• being alert around roads, driveways, and pedestrians
• keeping speeds appropriate and controlled
• understanding that PMDs are not toys.
Chief Superintendent Wheeler said the police were doing as much as possible to prevent further injuries.
“Our goal is always to keep Queenslanders safe,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
“If you choose to gift a PMD this Christmas, pair it with supervision, guidance, and an understanding of the rules – that’s the best present you can give your child.”
QPS will continue working with road safety partners as part of Operation X-ray Surety, promoting informed decision-making that reduces risk and keeps families safe on Queensland roads.
The QPS have even coordinated with the North Pole and have received a letter from Santa asking his elves to make informed decisions when purchasing these devices, giving them the option to check their device and check it twice to ensure it is compliant.
For more information about e-mobility rules visit: streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/e-bikes-e-scooters/
