Christmas gift warning to parents

Queensland Police Service is urging parents to understand their legal responsibilities when considering gifting e-scooters or e-bikes this Christmas, reminding them that buying an e-mobility device does not grant children permission to ride unsupervised.

Police say safe use begins at home, with parents and carers making informed choices, understanding the rules and legislation, and actively supervising 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 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 that 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 people being injured or killed on our roads.

“Our goal is always to keep Queenslanders safe,” he says.

“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.”

For more information about e-mobility rules, safe riding and responsibilities, visit Street Smarts Queensland.