Electronic scooter guidelines in Victoria: a comprehensive look at safety protocols and legal regulations for electric scooters
As the electric scooter trial in Victoria continues, the state government has announced several updates to the rules for the safe and responsible use of these vehicles. The trial, which began in 2021, has been extended for another six months, starting from 5th April 2023, and now includes the Cities of Melbourne, Yarra, Port Philip, and Ballarat.
Safety Measures and Penalties
Several safety measures have been put in place to ensure the safe use of electric scooters. For instance, only one person is allowed to ride an electric scooter, and no pillion passengers or pets are permitted. Breaching this rule can result in a fine of $185.
Helmets must be worn at all times while riding an electric scooter, and failing to wear a helmet can result in a $231 fine and 1.25 penalty units. Using a mobile phone while operating an electric scooter can lead to a fine of $555 and three penalty units.
Speed Limits and Regulated Areas
Electric scooters cannot travel above 20km per hour, and devices capable of exceeding 25km per hour are still illegal to use on public roads. The approved electric scooters use geo-tagging to ensure they do not travel outside of the licensed areas.
Electric scooters can be used on shared public paths and bike lanes, but riders must be mindful and stay safe around other pedestrians, cyclists, and obstacles. They must not be ridden on the footpath, but can be parked on the footpath as long as they're in an upright position and not obstructing pedestrian traffic.
Age and Alcohol Limitations
The minimum age to ride an electric scooter is 16 years, and the age limit for electric scooter riders has been reduced from 18 to 16. Riders must have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) below the legal limit when operating an electric scooter, and riders must not be impaired by alcohol or drugs while operating an electric scooter.
Enforcement and Regulations
Victoria Police will be enforcing the safe use of electric scooters, and the authority responsible for creating and overseeing the regulations for the operation of electric scooters in Victoria is typically the state government transport department, specifically VicRoads or the Department of Transport and Planning in Victoria, Australia.
Using the arevo App
The arevo app can be used to locate and book Lime electric scooters, making it easier for riders to access these vehicles and contribute to the trial. As of 5th April 2023, private electric scooters can be legally bought, sold, and ridden in Victoria, but they must abide by the Victorian electric scooter share scheme rules. No driver's license is required to ride electric scooters as part of the Victorian trial.
In summary, the electric scooter trial in Victoria has been extended, and several safety measures have been put in place to ensure the safe and responsible use of these vehicles. Riders must adhere to speed limits, wear helmets, and not use mobile phones while operating electric scooters. Electric scooters can be used in the City of Melbourne, City of Yarra, City of Port Phillip, and Ballarat, and riders must be mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and other obstacles while using them. The trial also includes the use of the arevo app to locate and book Lime electric scooters, and private electric scooters can now be legally bought, sold, and ridden in Victoria.
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