Privately owned e-scooters could be legal on South Australian roads within months as the government hands down its long-awaited new laws.
The proposed changes already have the backing of the opposition, but questions remain about what happens if you hit someone.
"These devices are game-changing for a lot of people who are suffering through cost of living crisis," Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis said.
The new laws will allow privately owned e-scooters to go on roads, bike paths and footpaths.
On roads and bike lanes, their speed will be limited to 25km/h.
On footpaths, they will have a lower limit of 15km/h.
Scooter riders will need to wear a helmet at all times, and it won't be legal to ride on public roads and paths until the laws pass.
The rules will apply to all devices with an electronic monitor, e-skateboards will be included in the new laws.
Riders will need to be at least 16 years old to use one, and police will enforce the laws.
The proposed new laws would mean riders need to follow different rules depending if they use their own e-scooter or hire one.
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As it stands, there is no requirement for compulsory insurance for scooter riders.
"Insurance has been an issue in every jurisdiction so what we want to see is how the govt is going to manage that," RAA's Mark Borlace said.
The laws are almost certain to pass with the opposition's backing, paving the way for changes by the end of the year.
