People are being urged to think twice before buying electric scooters and skateboards, with warnings that virtually all machines are illegal to use on the road.
Powered boards and scooters can only be used on private property in both NSW and Victoria.
The increasingly popular devices are banned on roads, footpaths and cycle lanes.
In Victoria, any e-scooters and e-skateboards that can travel more than 10km/h are classified as motor vehicles and are subject to the same rules as cars.
Because most don't have plates, indicators or lights, they can't be registered.
Wodonga highway patrol Sergeant Cameron Roberts said the devices were being sold in the local area.
IN OTHER NEWS
"They're becoming more and more popular and some of them can do quite a speed," he said.
"One of the problems is with visibility.
"If one comes barreling up behind you and you inadvertently step in front of it, because they're quiet, it can cause problems."
Police are taking an educational approach to the issue, focusing on safety.
"Without trying to sound like the fun police, it's a safety message," Sergeant Roberts said.
"That's not only for the people riding them but for those around them.
"We're taking the proactive approach of explaining this to people, that there are rules you've got to follow which are extremely restrictive and basically only allow them to be used on private property."
The NSW police force is formulating a policy on e-boards and e-scooters, with similar bans in place for use on footpaths and roads.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark https://www.bordermail.com.au/
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @bordermail
- Follow us on Instagram @bordermail
- Follow us on Google News.
