Advice from the experts at Australia Hoverboards.
So, you’ve finally learned how to ride your hoverboard in the comfort of your home. What’s next? Is your hope for the next Marty-McFly-inspired adventure taking shape?
Unfortunately, it’s not that straightforward. Using hoverboards in public spaces is subject to Australian law and safety regulations.
These laws and regulations vary between each state and territory, so be sure to research individual laws to enjoy your device safely and legally! Some areas are subject to enforced speed limits, limited area usage or bans in public places.
Here's what you need to know about hoverboard use and laws in different parts of Australia.
Queensland
Riding hoverboards in public places is allowed! The state views hoverboards as personal mobility devices, where all riders using their devices in public spaces are considered pedestrians.
If you're in Queensland, you're allowed to use your hoverboard on public paths, footpaths, and even bike paths. Just be sure to observe 25km/h speed limits and wear safety gear!
Australian Capital Territory
Using hoverboards on public property has been banned in the A.C.T. However, the law states you can still use it outdoors under certain conditions!
For instance, you're not allowed on bicycle lanes and roads, but you are allowed on shared paths, footpaths, and bicycle paths; and if you need to cross the road. You can also use it in places that don't have shared footpaths and bike paths. (It's recommended, though, that riders shouldn't stay on the road longer than necessary.)
The A.C.T. also has regulations about speed limits, based on the type of road you're riding on, using protective gear like helmets, and limiting riders to one per device.
Tasmania
You can ride hoverboards on public street in Tasmania provided it is for a commercial tour. This includes roads, footpaths, parks, and other recreational areas. (Commercial tours must be approved by the Department of State Growth to be granted a short-term permit.)
Aside from this, riding hoverboards in public spaces is not legal.
Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales
Unfortunately, riding hoverboards in public areas, including footpaths and roads, in these states is illegal. If you're based in these areas, avoid the fines and stick to riding your hoverboard on private property!
Final thoughts
You might think banning hoverboards in public spaces is a little extreme – after all, it's a simple, functional mobility device that can take you from one place to the next with ease!
But, they do have the capacity to reach some pretty high speeds. And it's not just ourselves as riders we have to keep in mind. Public spaces are for everyone, including pedestrians. So Australian lawmakers have regulated the use of hoverboards to limit accidents and keep people safe.
]]>A growing number of people, from children to teens and even adults, use electric scooters for both leisure and travelling. While they’re incredibly fun to ride, electric scooters can lead to accidents or injuries. Here are the five electric scooter safety tips to follow for you to stay safe and enjoy your ride.
Helmets and other protective gear can save your life! Helmets are an additional layer for your head and reduce the risk of head injuries by mitigating any impact of force or collision.
The Australian government has also created a mandatory requirement for anyone riding an electric scooter to wear a helmet. The same regulations apply to any other personal vehicles (such as non-electric scooters and skateboards).
While there different laws govern electric scooters in Australia vary across states, there are some general rules about max speeds. Generally, riders should not exceed 200W power. (In VIC, NT and WA, you’re allowed to ride at a max of 10km/h. In QLD and the ACT, you’re allowed to ride up to 25km/h.)
However, there have been recent federal law amendments that now define electric scooters as part of the brother PMD (personal mobility device) category. Which means riders have a uniform 25km/h speed limit, without power restrictions. Great news for heavier riders and hill riders.
Before using your electric scooter, start it up and ensure everything is fine and working. Do the tires have any visible damage? Are the brakes working well? After giving it a quick overall scan – you’re good to go!
Also be sure to check your surroundings and watch where you’re going. Look behind and in front of you, particularly for pedestrians. Focus on your path and stick to your lane. Watch out for barriers or obstructions. Respect other riders and pedestrians, and give way when possible. Responsible riders who follow traffic signs and rules make life better for everyone.
Watch for slippery surfaces and avoid riding in the rain when possible – or stick to low speeds.
The latest electric scooters have built-in battery, which you can plug into a power source – not other steps required!
If you have an older model, you may need to remove the battery by detaching it from the frame, then plug it into a charging base or power outlet. Newer models are a great choice to save you this hassle.
You may also be familiar with “max range” for e-scooters – which is how much distance you can get with a single charge. Being out and about or in the middle of nowhere when your e-scooter dies is the last thing you want.
If you’re a rider who doesn’t want to charge your scooter each night after use, it’s great to choose one with a bigger max range. (A max range of at least 30ks is ideal – particularly if you’re using it every day!)
Electric scooters aren’t built to ride tandem (even with one adult and a child). Stick to riding solo for safety, and protection against insurance policies if you have any accidents (you may be held accountable for riding with two people!). Enjoy it, and let your friends try it if they want to give it a try themselves.
Follow these simple safety tips to get the most out of your ride. Apply them during your journeys to avoid accidents, stay safe, and have fun!
]]>