E-Scooter Users Beware!
As of 20th May 2024, there has been developments in Irish Law regarding the use of E-Scooters. The Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 created a new vehicle class called powered personal transporters. You do not need a licence to ride an E- Scooter and it does not need to be registered, taxed or insured.
The Road Safety Authority have set out various guidelines regarding use of E-Scooters. Below is a non-exhaustive list of some of the key aspects to note regarding the use of E- Scooters on our roads.
Rules to abide by for all E-Scooter users:
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Users should be a minimum age of 16 years or older.
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Obey a speed limit of 20km/h.
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Drive on the left.
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E-Scooters are allowed in cycle or bus lanes and on local, regional or national roads.
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Where relevant E-Scooters should have lights and reflectors present on the vehicle.
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A simple way for E-Scooter users to consider their conduct on the road is to follow similar behaviour to cyclists. This goes for obeying traffic lights, road signs etc
The following behaviour is prohibited for E-Scooter users
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Use of footpaths, pedestrianised areas or motorways.
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Holding a mobile phone.
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Having a seat on an E-Scooter.
- Carrying passengers
Offences and penalties
E-Scooter users should be aware that if the rules of the road are broken and it is deemed that the E- Scooter in general was used in a dangerous fashion, a fine may be imposed. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has a list of fixed charge offences that apply. A fixed charge fine is €50. Examples include:
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E-Scooter is not kept in roadworthy condition.
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Speeding or using a mobile phone whilst operating E-Scooter
It should also be highlighted that you must not ride an E-Scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Riding under the influence can result in a court appearance and a fine of up to €2,000.
If you have been accused of an offence involving the use of an E-Scooter and wish to speak with a criminal defence solicitor, you should contact our office immediately and we will be happy to advise you in more detail. Here at Michael J Staines & Company we are in a position to advise you fully regarding this emerging area of Irish Law and one of our specialised solicitors will be happy to speak with you regarding this topic.
Oscar Banahan
Solicitor
Michael J Staines and Company