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Safety for kick-scooters, skates, and skateboards

Updated: 30 November 2009

When using in-line skates, a scooter or skateboard, are your children pedestrians? Or are they considered to be using a vehicle?  Generally, the answer is that they’re considered to be a pedestrian, which determines where they can use their skates, scooters or skateboard. This section includes tips you can teach your children to help them stay safe while on the move. 

Where can your children go?

Generally, children on rollerblades, skates, scooters or skateboards are considered to be pedestrians, which means they’re restricted to using the footpath.  Children aged over 14 can use a skateboard or scooter on the road – but because of the safety risk, we strongly discourage this. A better option for children of any age, is to encourage them to use facilities such as skate parks – it’s much safer for everyone. 

Teach your children to be mindful of others

When they’re out on the footpaths on skates, scooters or skateboards your children must take care not to harm or endanger other pedestrians.

Check for 'no-go' areas

Some local councils have banned scooters and skateboards in certain areas. Check with your local council to see where your children can use these.

Teach your children to stay safe

  • Wear a helmet and safety gear such as wrist guards, elbow and knee pads, as well and closed shoes and brightly coloured clothing.
  • Use scooters and skateboards and rollerblades in places set aside specifically for their use such as skate parks and playgrounds in your local area.
  • Practise riding skills away from traffic.

See more about the legal requirements for skateboards and scooters.