eRideables are electric-powered transport devices such as eScooters, eSkateboards, eSkates and hoverboards with a 25km/h speed limit. eBikes are not considered an eRideable. eBikes are equipped with motors designed to assist riders with pedalling and require human power to move and increase speed. Low-powered motorised devices are not eRideables as they have a top speed of 10km/h. It is essential to understand the difference between eRideables and low-powered motorised devices to make the best decision for your child’s safety.
eRideables
Children under the age of 16 are not allowed to operate eRideables such as eScooters or be a passenger on one. Current laws include:
- Age requirements 16+
- eRideables should weigh less than 25kg
- One person per device
- Helmets are required and must meet Australian standards.
- Light reflectors are required
- Speed on footpaths not exceeding 10km/h
- Speed on bike paths, shared paths, and local roads not exceeding 25km/h
- Travel is not permitted on roads exceeding 50km/h.
Safety Checklist
- Avoid poorly made products.
- Ensure all parts are functional, i.e. brakes
and locking mechanism. - Ensure the rider is highly visible to road users.
- Purchase and use protective equipment.
Most falls are due to a loss of control, and
the rider is likely to fall onto their hands, wrists, elbows, knees, and/or bump their head. - Learn to ride and practice in a safe place.
Low Powered Motorised Devices
Children under the age of 16 can operate low-powered motorised scooters that do not exceed 200 watts and do not exceed 10km/h.
WA Road Rules
Kidsafe WA recommends that children using low-powered motorised devices should use footpaths and shared paths. However, they must keep left and give way to pedestrians. On shared paths, they have the right of way over bicycles. It is recommended that children under 10 years of age ride under the supervision of an adult.
Small-wheeled devices can be used on roads, however:
- Only during daylight hours
- On local roads that do not have white lines on median strips
- On roads with a speed limit of 50kmph or less
- Must keep to the left.
For more information on eRideables and travelling safely on WA roads, check out the Road Safety Commission.
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