Shane Rattenbury says e-scooters will be legal in the ACT from Friday, 20 December. Photo: File.
The ACT Government gave Territorians an early Christmas present today with the announcement that e-scooters, skateboards and similar devices can be legally driven on shared paths and footpaths.
Minister for Justice, Consumer Affairs and Road Safety Shane Rattenbury said the new laws will help the ACT move towards its renewable energy targets.
“E-mobility provides new and convenient options for travel. They let people leave the car at home, and are easily combined with public transport,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“With the ACT achieving 100 per cent renewable electricity they can be recharged using clean energy, free of greenhouse gas emissions.
“Many ACT residents are keen to take advantage of e-scooters and similar e-mobility devices. I’m pleased to announce that these devices will be legal for personal use from 20 December.”
While these devices will not be legal on roads or on-road bicycle lanes, they will be allowed to be ridden on residential streets where there are no footpaths.
They will be subject to a maximum speed of 15 km/h on footpaths and up to 25 km/h in all other permitted locations. Users must wear a helmet, slow down to 10 km/h when going across a crossing, and give way to pedestrians.
Other road rules, like staying to the left, having a warning device like a bell and not being allowed to use mobile phones or ride under the influence, still apply.
“These are convenient and fun new devices, but I remind people to be responsible for their and others’ safety,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“Speed limits are the maximum, not the recommendation. People must be considerate of other users and travel at a safe speed for the conditions.
“People should also take care and learn to use the devices carefully before using them.”
To find out about the new rules and which devices are eligible visit JACS.
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