Police in the Mackay Whitsunday District have intensified their efforts to crack down on the illegal use of electric bikes. Numerous fines and charges have been issued following the alleged misuse of electric motorcycles and Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs).
Operation Wolfking, launched at the start of the year, aims to curb the unauthorized use of electric bikes and enhance road safety in the Mackay area. So far, 18 street checks have been conducted, revealing several instances of non-compliant electric motorbikes and improper PMD usage.
Authorities have handed out 12 infringement notices for various violations, such as riding unregistered or uninsured e-bikes and using PMDs in prohibited areas without proper safety gear. Notably, a parent faced penalties exceeding $700 for allowing their 15-year-old son to ride a modified e-bike.
Moreover, six individuals, aged between 13 and 16, have been charged with a total of 24 offenses, including driving without a license, insurance, or registration, and operating defective vehicles. These offenders received notices of caution.
Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, the Officer in Charge of the Mackay Whitsunday District Highway Patrol, expressed concern over the growing trend of youngsters riding high-powered, non-compliant electric bikes on public roads. He emphasized the risks posed by such vehicles to both riders and other road users.
Senior Sergeant Edwards stressed the importance of road safety for all, underscoring the need to address the dangerous and unlawful use of e-bikes to prevent accidents and fatalities. He pointed out that parents could face penalties for permitting their children to operate unauthorized, unregistered, or modified electric bikes.
He highlighted that electric bikes should be treated with the same regulations as conventional motorbikes, despite the difference in power sources. To educate the community, the operation will focus on raising awareness among children and parents about e-bike laws and safety protocols.
With the upcoming Easter school holidays, Mackay residents can expect heightened police presence to enforce road rules and ensure the safe use of e-bikes. Operation Wolfking will continue its enforcement efforts and educational campaigns in the region.
The initiative aims to promote road safety by increasing police visibility and conducting educational programs in local schools. Authorities urge the public to report any information related to illegal e-bike activities to help maintain road safety in the area.
As the crackdown on illegal e-bikes continues, the Queensland Police Service emphasizes the importance of adhering to road regulations to prevent accidents and fatalities. By raising awareness and enforcing the law, authorities aim to make roads safer for all users.
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