Electric scooters are still relatively new to Australian streets and paths. How we ride today shapes public perception and influences future regulations. Every interaction—positive or negative—affects whether communities welcome or resist e-scooter riders. Beyond regulations, good etiquette makes shared spaces safer and more pleasant for everyone.
This guide covers the unwritten rules of courteous e-scooter riding, helping you be an ambassador for the e-scooter community while navigating shared spaces with grace.
The Pedestrian Priority Principle
On any shared path or footpath where riding is permitted, pedestrians have absolute priority. This isn't just etiquette—it's typically law. But beyond legal requirements, respecting pedestrians builds goodwill for the entire e-scooter community.
Approaching Pedestrians
- Slow down well in advance: Don't wait until you're upon them to reduce speed
- Give audible warning: A bell, horn, or polite "passing on your left" alerts people to your presence
- Pass at walking speed: Many jurisdictions limit speed to 10-12km/h when passing within 2 metres
- Give maximum space: Move to the far side of the path when overtaking
- Be patient: Wait for safe passing opportunities rather than squeezing through gaps
Electric scooters are nearly silent. Pedestrians often don't hear you approaching, especially if they're wearing headphones or are hearing impaired. A sudden pass at speed—even if you technically have room—can startle and frighten people. Announce your presence early and pass slowly enough that even a surprised step sideways wouldn't cause a collision.
Special Consideration Groups
Some pedestrians require extra caution:
- Children: Unpredictable movement; may suddenly dart into your path
- Dogs on leads: Can move unexpectedly; give wide berth to both pet and owner
- Elderly pedestrians: May have limited hearing or mobility; startle easily
- People with disabilities: May not hear or see your approach; be prepared to stop completely
- Parents with prams: Limited manoeuvrability; need more passing space
Sharing with Cyclists
On bike paths and shared paths, cyclists are your closest companions. Building mutual respect benefits everyone.
Matching the Flow
E-scooters and bicycles often travel at similar speeds, making integration relatively smooth. However:
- Maintain predictable paths: Don't weave or make sudden direction changes
- Signal your intentions: Hand signals for turns and stops help cyclists anticipate your movements
- Respect the hierarchy: On paths with heavy bicycle traffic, consider yourself a guest rather than an equal partner
- Allow faster cyclists to pass: If you're riding slowly, move aside when safe
Differences to Remember
Cyclists handle differently than scooter riders:
- Cyclists have longer stopping distances at speed
- Cyclists are less stable at very low speeds (they may wobble)
- Cyclists in groups may ride side-by-side
- Cyclists clipping in/out of pedals may be momentarily unstable
Interacting with Motor Vehicles
On roads where scooters are permitted, you're the smallest and most vulnerable road user. Defensive positioning and clear communication prevent misunderstandings.
Visibility and Position
- Claim your space: Don't hug the kerb where you're invisible and vulnerable to doors opening
- Make eye contact: At intersections, try to confirm drivers have seen you before proceeding
- Use clear signals: Hand signals for turns help drivers predict your movements
- Stay out of blind spots: Especially next to trucks and buses
- Assume drivers haven't seen you until proven otherwise
- Never assume a driver will yield—be prepared to stop
- Position yourself where drivers naturally look
- Make your intentions obvious well in advance
- Thank courteous drivers with a wave or nod
At Intersections
Intersections are conflict points. Clear behaviour prevents accidents:
- Stop fully at stop signs and red lights (yes, even when no one's watching)
- Position yourself where turning drivers can see you
- Don't filter to the front of traffic unless there's a designated bike box
- Wait for green lights rather than anticipating changes
Parking and Storage Etiquette
Where and how you park affects pedestrian access and public perception of scooters.
Good Parking Practice
- Never block footpaths: Ensure pedestrians, wheelchairs, and prams can pass
- Avoid doorways and ramps: These are essential access points for others
- Park neatly: If bike racks are available and appropriate, use them
- Use designated scooter parking: When available in your city
- Keep away from fire exits: Emergency access must remain clear
- Don't chain to accessibility features: Handrails and ramps serve important purposes
A scooter that topples over can block pathways and create tripping hazards. Always ensure your kickstand is on firm, level ground and the scooter is stable before walking away. Check that wind won't knock it over—some scooters are top-heavy when folded.
Public Transport Integration
Many riders combine scooting with trains, buses, or ferries. Courteous behaviour on public transport keeps this option available.
General Principles
- Fold when required: Most transit rules require scooters to be folded; comply without being asked
- Minimise space: Hold your scooter vertically or in the smallest configuration
- Stay near doors: Position yourself for quick exit without blocking aisles
- Off-peak if possible: During rush hour, space is limited; be extra considerate
- Clean tyres: Muddy tyres shouldn't dirty seats or other passengers
Platform and Stop Behaviour
- Don't ride on platforms—walk your scooter
- Wait at the side of boarding areas
- Let others board first if you have a bulky folded scooter
- Use elevators rather than escalators when carrying your scooter
Being an Ambassador
Your behaviour shapes how communities view all e-scooter riders. Every positive interaction helps; every negative one hurts our collective reputation.
Positive Ambassador Behaviours
- Acknowledge others: A nod, smile, or wave costs nothing and builds goodwill
- Thank courteous behaviour: When drivers yield or pedestrians step aside, acknowledge them
- Follow rules visibly: Wearing a helmet and obeying traffic signals shows responsibility
- Help other riders: If you see someone struggling with a flat tyre or directions, offer assistance
- Report dangerous riding: Rental scooter apps often have reporting features; use them for reckless riders
Handling Conflicts
Occasionally, you'll encounter hostility—angry drivers, frustrated pedestrians, or territorial cyclists. Responding poorly escalates situations and damages the e-scooter community's reputation.
- Don't engage: Arguing roadside never ends well
- Apologise if you erred: A quick "sorry about that" defuses tension
- Move on quickly: Don't let confrontations become standoffs
- Report genuine threats: Harassment or dangerous driving should be reported to police
Community Building
The e-scooter community in Australia is still forming. You can help shape it positively.
Ways to Contribute
- Join local groups: Facebook groups and forums connect riders for advice and advocacy
- Participate in consultations: When councils seek feedback on e-scooter regulations, contribute
- Share knowledge: Help newcomers learn safe, courteous riding
- Lead by example: Your visible good behaviour influences others
- You're sharing space, not owning it
- Every interaction shapes public perception
- Courtesy costs nothing but earns respect
- Rules are minimums—etiquette goes further
- We're all ambassadors for the e-scooter community
Good etiquette isn't about limiting your freedom—it's about enabling the entire e-scooter community to thrive. When riders demonstrate that we can share spaces responsibly, we earn the trust that leads to more permissive regulations and better infrastructure. Every courteous pass, every patient wait, every friendly wave contributes to a future where e-scooters are welcomed rather than restricted. Ride with respect, and help build the community we all want to be part of.