E-Scooters, E-Bicycles, and E-Skateboard Laws: What You Need to Know

In Melbourne, the rise of alternative, eco-friendly modes of transport such as e-scooters, e-bicycles, and e-skateboards has been hard to ignore. With their convenience and environmental benefits, these electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular among commuters.

However, as with any form of transportation, there are rules and regulations that riders must adhere to, to ensure safety on the roads. Understanding the laws surrounding these electric vehicles is crucial for riders and pedestrians. If you face legal issues related to these vehicles, seeking advice from traffic lawyers Melbourne can help you navigate the complexities of road laws.

In this blog, we will provide an overview of the key E-bike regulations in Victoria and other relevant laws that riders should be aware of to ensure they are compliant and ride safely.

The Rise of E-Mobility in Melbourne

As e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-skateboards become increasingly popular in Melbourne, riders must understand the Melbourne road rules for electric vehicles. These rules are in place to keep everyone safe on the streets, ensuring that both riders and pedestrians can move around smoothly and without any issues.

In Victoria, e-scooters and e-bikes are subject to specific regulations. For example, e-scooters must be ridden at a maximum speed of 20 km/h on public roads or shared paths, while e-bikes can go up to 25 km/h under normal conditions.

Additionally, riders must wear helmets, and e-scooters are prohibited on footpaths in Melbourne’s central business district (CBD). Penalties for not adhering to these rules can range from $395 for failing to wear a helmet to higher penalties for riding in restricted areas or exceeding speed limits.

Whether you are zipping through bike lanes or cruising along shared paths, knowing where you can ride, what speed limits apply, and when you need to wear a helmet is key to staying on the right side of the law. It is also important to be aware of the consequences if the rules aren’t followed, from fines to more serious penalties including restrictions on your driver's license.

Are E-Scooters, E-Bicycles, and E-Skateboards Legal in Melbourne?

E-scooters, e-bikes, and e-skateboards are legal on Melbourne roads, but riders must follow specific rules and regulations. These rules vary by device type and the local jurisdiction. It is crucial for users to understand the restrictions placed on these vehicles to avoid legal issues and ensure their safety on the roads.

Key Laws and Regulations for E-Mobility Riders

When riding e-scooters, e-bikes, or e-skateboards in Melbourne, it is essential to be aware of the following regulations:

Vehicle Classification:

E-scooters and e-skateboards are classified as personal mobility devices (PMDs). Riders must ensure their devices meet specific requirements, including weight and speed limits. They should not have the capacity to exceed 25km/h
On the other hand, e-bikes are classified as electric bicycles and must meet specific requirements to be legally ridden on the roads. E-scooter riders in Victoria don’t need a licence; however, riding an e-scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impact your driver's licence. To legally ride an e-scooter, riders must be at least 16 years old.

Speed Limits

This regulation restricts wheeled recreational devices (e.g., e-skateboards, non-motorized scooters, rollerblades) and wheeled toys (e.g., children's bikes, tricycles) on certain roads in Victoria. Specifically, it states that:

You cannot ride these devices on roads with a dividing line or median strip (roads with a physical or painted separation between traffic directions).
You cannot ride them on roads where the speed limit is over 50 km/h (to prevent accidents in high-speed traffic areas).
You cannot ride them on one-way roads with more than one lane (to avoid potential dangers in multi-lane traffic).

The penalty for violating this rule is 2 penalty units, a monetary fine set by the Victorian government. The value of a single penalty unit is updated annually, so the total fine depends on the current rate.

Road Access

E-scooters and e-skateboards are allowed on roads with a speed limit of 60 km/h or lower unless signs prohibit it. E-bikes can be ridden on most roads but not on footpaths unless indicated.

Speed Limits, Helmet Laws, and Road Use Rules

When using e-mobility devices, following local road rules, including wearing an approved helmet, is essential. Helmet laws for e-mobility are in place to ensure rider safety, and failing to wear one can result in fines.

Speed Limits for E-Scooters, E-Bikes, and E-Skateboards

E-scooters: Maximum speed of 20 km/h on the road.
E-bikes: Maximum speed of 25 km/h, but riders can exceed this if they are pedalling and the motor is not assisting.
E-skateboards: Similar to e-scooters, with a speed limit of 20 km/h.

Helmet Laws

All e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-skateboard riders must wear an approved helmet. Failure to comply with this law can result in a fine. Helmets are mandatory for both the rider and any passengers.

Road Use Rules

E-scooters and E-skateboards: Riders must stay off footpaths and use the road or bicycle lanes wherever available.
E-bikes: These can be ridden on both roads and bicycle paths.

Penalties for Breaking E-Scooter and E-Bike Laws

Riders who break the laws surrounding e-scooters and e-bikes may face hefty fines, including penalties for illegal e-bike riding.

E-Scooter Penalties at Law

Riders who break the laws surrounding e-scooters may face the following penalties:

Riding without a helmet: A fine of $395.
Riding on a footpath: A fine of $296.
Exceeding speed limits (60km/hr): A fine of $198.
Drinking alcohol while riding: A fine of $395.
Fail to obey traffic lights: A fine of $494.

E-Bike Penalties Law

E-bike riders also need to be mindful of the rules to avoid penalties, such as:

Riding under 16 years of age: A fine of $296.
Riding with a passenger: A fine of $247.
Exceeding speed limits (20km/hr): A fine of $346.

Other potential penalties for serious offences include impounding the vehicle and demerit points. Similar to e-scooter violations, serious traffic law violations may result in the impounding of the bike and demerit points.

What to Do If You Receive a Fine or Traffic Charge?

If you have received traffic fines for e-scooters, e-bikes, or e-skateboards in Melbourne, how do you challenge it? Here are your options:

Pay the Fine

If you think the fine was issued correctly, paying the fine is the quickest and easiest option.
Paying promptly avoids additional penalties, like late fees.
Be sure the fine was justified before paying, as penalties may sometimes be issued in error.

Contest the Fine

If you think the fine was unfairly issued, you can contest it in court.
Traffic lawyers in Melbourne can assist in:
- Assessing whether the fine was correctly issued.
- Helping you gather evidence (photos, videos, witness statements, etc.) to support your case.
- Representing you in court to challenge the fine and minimise penalties.
- Negotiating a reduced penalty or dismissal of the fine before it reaches court.

Request a Review or Appeal the Decision

Many fines allow you to request an internal review from the issuing authority.
If the review doesn’t go in your favour, you can appeal the decision to a higher authority or court.

Paying in Installments

If the fine is large, you may be able to pay it in instalments by contacting the relevant authorities.
Arranging this early helps avoid further penalties or issues.

Seek Legal Advice

If you are unsure how to proceed, seeking legal advice can help you understand your options.
A lawyer can evaluate whether contesting the fine is worth it or if paying is a better option.

How a Traffic Lawyer in Melbourne Can Help

If you are facing penalties or charges related to e-scooters, e-bikes, or other e-mobility devices, seeking help from a traffic offence lawyer in Melbourne is critical. These experts can assist in explaining electric scooter laws in Melbourne and ensure you navigate them safely and legally.

Here is how accurate legal advice and support can make a difference:

Understand Melbourne Transport Laws for Electric Vehicles: A traffic lawyer will clarify the relevant Melbourne transport laws for electric vehicles, including speed limits, helmet laws, and where you can legally ride your e-scooter or e-bike. This can help avoid potential fines or legal troubles in the future.
Challenge Fines and Penalties: If you think a fine or penalty is unfair, a lawyer can assist in challenging it. Whether it is related to riding without a helmet, exceeding the speed limit, or riding on prohibited paths, a lawyer will assess your case and guide you through disputing the penalty.
Represent You in Court: For serious charges or if your e-mobility offence escalates, a criminal defence lawyer in Melbourne can represent you in court. They will work to minimise the penalties, reduce the charges, or explore other options as an alternative to fines.
Minimise Consequences: Whether it is your first offence or a more serious violation, a traffic lawyer can help reduce the impact of your charge. They may be able to negotiate a reduced penalty or find alternatives to prevent a criminal record.
Riding E-Mobility Devices Safely and Legally: A skilled lawyer will also guide you on how to ride e-mobility devices safely and legally, ensuring you stay compliant with local regulations and avoid potential accidents or fines.

Navigating the legalities of e-mobility laws can be complex, but with the support of the best lawyers in Melbourne, you can ensure you are on the right track. Whether it is contesting fines, seeking compensation, or defending against serious charges, professional legal assistance for e-scooter riders is always worth considering.

Choosing the Best Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne for Legal Support

If your e-mobility offence escalates into a criminal matter or you face serious charges, hiring the best criminal lawyers in Melbourne is essential. Criminal defence lawyers specialise in representing individuals charged with serious traffic offences or criminal matters related to driving laws, including those involving e-scooters and e-bikes.

The best criminal lawyers will help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, reduce penalties, ensure fair representation, and safeguard your legal rights.

When choosing a criminal lawyer, consider the following:

Experience with Traffic and E-Mobility Offences: Look for lawyers who have experience handling cases involving e-scooters, e-bikes, and other e-mobility devices.
Proven Track Record: Seek lawyers with a history of successfully defending clients in similar cases and reducing fines or penalties.
Personalised Legal Strategy: The best lawyers will create a defence strategy tailored to your case, considering your situation's unique details.
Clear Communication: Choose a lawyer who clearly explains your rights and legal process, ensuring you understand every step.
Negotiation Skills: A skilled lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to secure reduced charges or alternative penalties, such as community service, instead of fines or imprisonment.

Hiring the right lawyer can make all the difference in achieving a favourable outcome, whether a minor traffic violation or a serious criminal charge related to e-mobility offences. Rebecca Burdon Legal & Consulting offer expert legal services, providing tailored advice and representation to help you navigate the complexities of the law and secure the best possible outcome.

Staying Compliant with E-Scooter and E-Bike Laws

As e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-skateboards become more prevalent in Melbourne, riders must understand and follow the legal requirements. By adhering to speed limits, wearing helmets, and following road use rules, riders can stay safe and avoid legal penalties.

If you face legal issues related to e-mobility laws, don’t hesitate to contact a traffic lawyer in Melbourne for assistance. Legal experts can provide the support you need to navigate the complexities of traffic laws and ensure your rights are upheld.

For more information or to get legal advice regarding traffic offences, visit Burdon Legal’s Traffic Law page or contact us.

E-scooters, E-bicycles, and E-skateboard Laws on the Roads in Melbourne