Released 25/07/2017
Segways will be permitted on footpaths, shared paths and some roads across the ACT from tomorrow said Acting Road Safety Minister Gordon Ramsay.
“The new segway rules treat users as pedestrians with some additional requirements to ensure safety,” Mr Ramsay said.
Segway users will have to wear an approved bicycle helmet, have a bell or other warning device fitted and use lights and reflectors when travelling at night or in reduced visibility.
“The requirement for segway users to wear a bicycle helmet will help to mitigate the risk of serious head injury in the event of a rider falling off their segway.”
Segways will be permitted on footpaths, shared paths and nature strips. Segway users must keep left on a footpath or shared path unless impracticable to do so and give way to other pedestrians on footpaths and shared paths.
On-road use is allowed only when there is no footpath, shared path or nature strip or it is impracticable to travel on the footpath, shared path or nature strip. Segway users on the road must also keep to the left side of the road like cyclists. Motorists must give way to segway users travelling across pedestrian and children’s crossings.
The segway user must slow to 10 km/h on the approach to the crossing, check for any approaching traffic and be prepared to stop – the same pedestrian crossing rules as for cyclists. This will allow motorists to see and respond to the segway user before they make the crossing.
“It doesn’t matter whether you’re driving a car, walking or riding a bicycle, motorcycle or segway– we all need to act responsibly, be courteous to each other and share the road. Developing this culture will make our roads a safer and friendlier place to be,” Mr Ramsay said.
- Statement ends -
Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases