Police ask parents to pair their new PMD Christmas gift with supervision, guidance and an understanding of the rules. Photo: QPS.
Parents across the Cape are urged to learn and understand their legal responsibilities when considering giving e-scooters or e-bikes this Christmas.
Queensland Police Service (QPS) reminds families that purchasing an e-mobility device does not grant children permission to ride unsupervised.
With the continued rise in popularity of PMDs (personal mobility devices) across Queensland, police are reinforcing that safe use begins at home.
QPS says parents and carers need to make informed choices, understand the rules and legislation, and actively supervise young riders.
The message follows the recent launch of Operation X-Ray Surety, which encourages the community to think ahead, stay informed, and take steps to reduce road trauma and protect our most vulnerable road users.
So far this year, 13 lives have been lost on Queensland roads while riding e-mobility devices.
Road Policing Group Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler says 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 says.
“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 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 says police are doing everything they can to prevent injuries and deaths on our roads.
“Our goal is always to keep Queenslanders safe.
“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.
Co-ordinating with the North Pole, QPS has received a letter from Santa asking his elves to make informed decisions when buying these devices, giving them the option to check their device and check it twice to ensure it is compliant.
Visit: Street Smarts Queensland.
