Ireland Set to Regulate E-Scooters; Under-16 Usage Prohibited Under New Laws from Monday

The Irish government will introduce new laws on electric scooters next week. Under 16s are prohibited from using them.

Despite being a popular mode of transport, the use of e-scooters was previously illegal until this month.

Starting Monday, individuals can operate e-scooters up to 20km/h. However, under the new regulations, those under 16 will no longer be allowed to use them.

Furthermore, it will be unlawful for multiple individuals to ride on a single e-scooter or use the scooters to transport goods. The regulations also stipulate stringent requirements regarding braking and lighting.

Minister for Transport and the Environment Eamon Ryan emphasized that these regulations aim to address barriers to the legal use of e-scooters, which have become a common sight on streets.

Ryan stated, “These regulations, part of the comprehensive Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, are designed to enhance road safety for all users while providing legal clarity for those opting for new mobility solutions.”

He further highlighted the regulations’ objective to strike a balance between the safety of e-scooter users and other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. Moreover, they are intended to future-proof Ireland’s regulatory framework to accommodate emerging technologies.

To accompany the implementation of the new regulations, a public information campaign on the safe and legal use of e-scooters will commence concurrently with their enforcement on Monday.

Sola Adeniji

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