With the rise in popularity of e-scooters, local police are urging riders to be aware of updated rules on their use - or face the penalties.
New rules include a ban on riders aged under 16, a speed limit of 20km/h and not carrying passengers. They also are not permitted to travel on footpaths.
Baw Baw Highway Patrol acting sergeant Nicole Beames said police had opted to issue warnings on most occasions since the new rules were introduced in October last year. However, the time for warnings was quickly coming to a close.
If e-scooter riders don't comply, act sgt Beames said the next step may be a crackdown to address concerns of the police and the public on their use.
"It's becoming a problem," she said of those not obeying the rules.
E-scooters - or electric scooters - are now legal in Victoria following a trial. However, new rules apply.
The major rules are: e-scooter riders must be 16-years-old; not exceed the maximum speed of 20km/h; ride only on shared paths and roads that have a speed limit up to 60km/h; wear a helmet at all times; follow traffic rules; and, be visible at all times.
They are urged to use flashing or steady front and back lights if travelling at night. In addition, police urged riders to park responsibly at a place which doesn't disrupt pedestrians or pose a safety risk.
E-scooter riders cannot: ride on the footpath; use a mobile phone while riding; ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol; carry passengers or animals; ride in tandem (side by side); ride a high-speed e-scooter capable of travelling more than 25km/h; and, ride on roads that have a speed limit of more than 60km/h.
Police may test a person riding any electric scooter for drugs and alcohol under the Road Safety Act 1986.
Riders of trial or compliant e-scooters do not require a driving licence and a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05 applies. Riders of non-compliant private e-scooters - capable of more than 25km/h - are restricted to a zero BAC, unless they hold a full and unrestricted motorcycle licence.
For further information, visit tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/road-users/e-scooters