WA Police target hoons with crackdown on rogue eRiders

• WA Police targeting people breaking eRideable rules
• Illegal devices being seized in police crackdown
• Aims to prevent people seriously injuring themselves or other path users
  

Police Minister Paul Papalia today warned that State Traffic officers have ramped up their crackdown on people deliberately flouting eRideable rules, particularly in busy pedestrian areas such as the Perth CBD and coastal shared paths.

Following 18 months of raising awareness and educating the community on eRideable laws, the Western Australia Police Force is targeting riders using illegal devices, exceeding speed limits on shared paths and footpaths, and not wearing a helmet.

eRideable legislation reflecting the nationally agreed approach to these devices was introduced in December 2021 and clearly outlines the speed, size and weight limits for devices used on public property.

Despite multiple mass media campaigns and community engagement efforts to educate users, eScooters exceeding legal limits have been detected in the community.

WA Police have responded by seizing these unlicensed motor vehicles.

The WA Police Force is conducting an ongoing operation targeting the dangerous and unlawful use of eRideables.

As a result of this targeted enforcement, 823 infringements were issued and 64 eRideables impounded during a 16-month period (1 Jan 2022 - 9 May 2023).

Enforcement efforts have been bolstered during National Road Safety Week, with one of the daily themes of the week promoting the safe sharing of paths.

More information about eRideable rules is available on the Road Safety Commission website.

Comments attributed to Police Minister Paul Papalia:

"Western Australians have embraced eRideables and while most people are doing the right thing and riding safely and sensibly, there are people deliberately flouting the law.

"The rules for the use of eRideables are clear and have been communicated to the community.

"WA Police are actively enforcing eRideable rules and have my full support in getting oversize and overweight devices off our roads and paths.

"Riders breaking other rules such as going faster than 10 km/h on footpaths, riding with more than one person on a device or not wearing a helmet can expect a fine.

"The risk of seriously injuring themselves or someone else should be enough of a deterrent for these rogue riders and it's disappointing that hitting people in the hip pocket is often the only way to curb dangerous behaviour."

Minister's office - 6552 5600