Queensland Police have seized more than 500 non-compliant devices and issued nearly 2,500 fines as part of a major crackdown on dangerous and illegal e-bike and e-scooter riding since new laws came into effect on 1 July.
Queensland Police have been taking action on e-mobility devices through Operation Surety to remove illegal devices from the state’s streets and hold dangerous riders to account.
In three months, police have seized 558 non-compliant e-bikes and e-scooters and issued 2,486 traffic infringement notices. More than 1,500 riders were fined for failing to wear a helmet, while 157 riders were caught speeding. Police have also conducted 878 roadside breath tests, intercepting 68 drink riders.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Dan Purdie said the first three months of the reforms demonstrated what could be achieved when the Government backed Queenslanders and police with strong laws.
“Three months ago, we promised Queenslanders we would take action and today we can see the results,” Minister Purdie said.
“More than 500 non-compliant devices have been taken off Queensland streets and nearly 2,500 riders have been held to account.
“For a decade, Labor allowed dangerous and illegal devices to proliferate while Queenslanders raised the alarm.
“Three months in, we are seeing the difference the Crisafulli Government’s nation-leading laws are making – and we will keep working to ensure Queenslanders can use our roads, footpaths and shared pathways safely.”
Since the second tranche of reforms came into effect on 31 August – introducing new age and licensing requirements for e-mobility riders – an additional 64 people have been charged.
Queensland Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Tim Partrige said as the operation enters its fourth month, police would continue to enforce the laws and educate riders to ensure safety on Queensland roads.
“As with any road safety operation, our goal under Operation Surety is to protect all road and pathway users, including those on e-mobility devices,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Partrige said.
“Electric power assisted cycles, e-scooter and other e-mobility devices are vehicles, and like any other vehicle, dangerous behaviours like speeding, drink riding or using non-compliant devices can have life-threatening consequences – not just for the rider, but the community as a whole.
“Non-compliant devices and dangerous riding have no place in our communities, and police will continue to take enforcement action against those disregarding the law.
“However, police also urge the community to understand their responsibilities on these devices.”
