Are Electric Scooters Safe in Perth?

Two electric scooters with "WEDGETAIL" branding are parked on a concrete surface, leaning against a textured wall, showcasing their sleek and modern design.

Are Electric Scooters Safe in Perth? What Riders Should Know

Electric scooters have quickly become a common sight across Perth.

You’ll see them on bike paths, along the Swan River, commuting into the CBD, and cruising through coastal suburbs.

But many people still ask an important question before trying one:

Are electric scooters actually safe?

The short answer is yes - when ridden responsibly and within the rules.

Let’s look at why electric scooters are considered safe transport in Perth and what riders can do to stay protected.

Why Electric Scooters Are Growing in Perth

Electric scooters are gaining popularity because they offer a practical alternative to cars for short trips.

They allow riders to:

• Avoid traffic congestion

• Skip parking fees

• Travel quickly through the city

• Cover short distances efficiently

For trips between 2 km and 10 km, scooters can often be faster than driving.

But like any vehicle, safety depends on how they are used.

Perth Has Good Infrastructure for Riding

One reason electric scooters work well in Perth is the city’s expanding network of:

• Bike paths

• Shared paths

• Coastal cycling routes

• Dedicated commuter paths

Routes along the Swan River, Kings Park and Perth’s coastal paths give riders safe spaces away from heavy traffic.

These paths are designed for bikes and scooters, which significantly improves rider safety.

WA Laws Help Keep Scooter Riders Safe

Western Australia introduced regulations for electric scooters (called eRideables) to ensure they operate safely in shared spaces.

Key rules include:

Maximum speeds:

• 10 km/h on footpaths

• 25 km/h on bike paths and roads (where permitted)

Other important rules:

• Helmets are mandatory

• Scooters must use lights at night

• Riders must give way to pedestrians

• Carrying passengers is not allowed

These laws are designed to balance convenience with safety.

Safety Tips for Riding Electric Scooters in Perth

Following simple riding habits can dramatically reduce risk.

Wear a Helmet

Helmets are required by law and significantly reduce the chance of serious head injury.

Use Bike Paths Where Possible

Bike paths provide the safest environment for scooter riders because they separate riders from traffic.

Perth has hundreds of kilometres of these paths.

Slow Down Around Pedestrians

Shared paths are used by:

• walkers

• runners

• families

• dogs

Always reduce speed and give pedestrians space.

Stay Visible

If riding at night:

• use front and rear lights

• wear reflective clothing if possible

Visibility is key for safety.

Watch Road Conditions

Scooters have small wheels, so riders should avoid:

• potholes

• wet leaves

• gravel patches

• sudden kerbs

A little awareness goes a long way.

Are Electric Scooters Safer Than Cars for Short Trips?

For short urban trips, scooters can actually reduce certain risks.

They remove:

• parking stress

• traffic congestion

• aggressive driving environments

They also tend to operate at much lower speeds than cars, particularly on shared paths.

That said, riders should always treat scooters as vehicles - not toys.

Who Electric Scooters Are Best For

Scooters are especially useful for people who:

• commute short distances

• live near the CBD

• want to avoid parking costs

• travel along bike path networks

• prefer flexible transport options

Many riders use them for the “last kilometre” between public transport and work.

The Bottom Line

So, are electric scooters safe in Perth?

Yes - when riders follow the rules and ride responsibly.

Perth’s growing bike path network, clear safety regulations, and relatively mild climate make it one of the better Australian cities for electric scooter travel.

Like any form of transport, safety comes down to awareness, good habits, and respect for others on the path.

When used correctly, electric scooters can be a convenient, efficient and enjoyable way to move around Perth.