Electric scooters present a unique opportunity. They're a convenient, sustainable method of transport, and their rise in popularity has seen states and territories changing and making rules around where they can and can't be ridden. What does that mean for Perth residents? Well, Western Australia has a straightforward set of rules regulating its use.
Understanding eRideables in Western Australia
Western Australia's legislation on electric scooters revolves around eRideables. This is a term used to describe electric scooters and any other electric mobility device.
First and foremost, you must be at least 16 to operate an electric scooter legally in and around the state. So, if you're thinking about purchasing a scooter for your little one, it can only be used on private property legally.
One of the other regulations is a maximum speed of 25 km/h, which is why most manufacturers selling in Australia limit their scooters' capacity for speed. One of the most trusted brands, Segway, doesn't produce scooters that exceed 25 km/h. When operating on a pedestrian crossing or a footpath, the speed limit is 10 km/h. Additionally, these devices can't weigh more than 25 kg.
Electric scooters are for one rider only, the rider must wear a helmet, and drinking and riding are illegal, the same way drinking and driving are.
Where You Can Ride Your Segway Electric Scooter
If you want to stay safe and legal, ensure you know where you are allowed to ride your electric scooter. Perth is one of the most liberal cities with electric scooter allowances, so you're allowed to operate on bicycle and shared paths as long as you maintain the speed limit of 25 km/h, you can operate on footpaths and pedestrian crossings as long as you maintain the speed limit of 10 km/h. You're also free to use bicycle lanes and local roads again, but you must maintain a speed limit of 25 km/h.
As long as you're on a road with a speed limit that does not exceed 50 km/h, you are legally permitted to ride your electric scooter. However, there are certain areas designated as no-ride zones, including Forrest Place and Hay and Murray Street malls.
Where You Can't Ride Your Segway Electric Scooter
You know where you can ride, but where can't you take your Segway MAX G3 electric scooter? If the speed limit is more than 50 km/h, you can't ride down that road. If you're not sure about the speed limit, look for median strips or dividing lines on the road; these indicate high-speed traffic.
Look for footpaths that strictly state they are no-ride zones, these are where pedestrians have priority and should be avoided. Additionally, you cannot legally ride your scooter in a bus lane. As noted above, Forrest Place and Hay and Murray Street malls are no-ride zones, so you can't operate your scooter in these areas.
If your scooter doesn't fold, you may be restricted from carrying it on public transport. That's something to look into before you invest in a scooter to aid your commute to work. Make sure the scooter you want meets the size restrictions for public transport if that's in your plans.
Wherever you take your ride, be sure to wear the proper safety equipment, including a helmet. Just because the upper limit for an electric scooter is 25 km/h doesn't mean you can operate yours at that speed everywhere. Be mindful of other road operators and stick to 10 km/h on footpaths.
Ultimately, the best way to steer clear of trouble is to check your local council website for the most up-to-date restrictions and no-ride zones.
Safety Requirements and Recommendations
You are legally required to wear a helmet while riding an electric scooter, and failure to comply with the law will land you with a fine. It also puts you at serious risk of a head injury if you have an accident or fall. If you're a new rider and you plan to approach it from a sporty perspective, you should consider additional safety gear like elbow and knee pads for extra protection.
Tech Sales Online stocks a range of accessories, and these can enhance your safety, increase convenience, and heighten the experience! Be sure to invest in a reliable password lock to prevent theft when you store it for the day, and you can enhance long rides with a handy Bluetooth speaker, a multi-functional seat for comfort and storage, and a phone holder to keep your phone secure and provide you with navigation.
Final Thoughts
Western Australia has some of the most relaxed laws around electric scooter operation, so it's a great place to live if you're an eRideables enthusiast! As long as you familiarise yourself with the local regulations and stick to the rules, you shouldn't run into any issues.
Tech Sales Online stocks Segway products, an authorised seller of the best electric scooters on the market and a range of Segway accessories so you can buy everything you need in one convenient spot.