E-bikes and e-scooters continue to be a source of concern for the local community. This is a very real issue regarding road safety and vehicle compliance as over 260 students each day use an e-bike to come to school.
Since late 2023, the Elanora Police Beat has worked in conjunction with the school in addressing the students regarding road safety and e-bikes on no fewer than six occasions. Despite the regular face-to-face information sessions and posts on our social media sites, we have had four students hospitalised in road traffic accidents. The school, on average receives a complaint a week about a “near miss” or students not complying with the Traffic Code.
Hon. Minister Laura Gerber MP – Member for Currumbin, recently ran a community forum on the issues e-bikes are creating for local residents. One of the key initiatives arising from the forum is ensuring that students, parents, and the wider community are fully informed about the legal requirements surrounding e-bikes. With the increasing popularity of e-bikes among students, it is crucial for parents to understand the difference between a legal and an illegal e-bike and the potential consequences of non-compliance with vehicle regulations.
A legal e-bike must meet specific criteria, including motor power limits and speed restrictions, to be lawfully ridden on public roads and pathways. However, many students are using modified or high-powered e-bikes that exceed these limits, making them illegal and subject to enforcement action.
We strongly encourage parents to educate themselves on what constitutes a compliant e-bike and to have conversations with their children about the legal and safety requirements. Parents should also be aware that they may be held liable for any penalties their child incurs while riding an illegal e-bike, including fines.
To ensure compliance and safety, we urge families to discuss the specific road rules governing e-bike use, such as helmet requirements, speed restrictions, and where e-bikes can be lawfully ridden. By staying informed and engaged, we can work together to promote safer and more responsible e-bike usage in our community.
We also ask all students to be mindful of the top three priorities of:
1. Wear a helmet
2. Be safe and comply with road rules
3. Slow down and be careful through school zones and crossings
The school will continue to work with the Elanora Police Beat, Palm Beach Police Station, Transport & Main Roads, GCCC and the local community to improve safety.
