NEW regulations requiring electric scooter riders to be at least 18 years of age will come into next month.
Currently people aged 16 or over are permitted to ride e-scooters in Ireland.
This will change on October 2, when the minimum age rises to 18, Ireland’s Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien has confirmed.
“Increasing the minimum age for e-scooter use to 18 is a necessary and proportionate road safety measure,” he said in a statement issued this week.
“We have seen a concerning number of serious injuries and fatalities involving young e-scooter users, and our regulations need to address this,” he explained.
“Together with the recent introduction of mandatory helmets and high-visibility clothing, these changes send a clear message that e-scooters must be used responsibly and safely.”
Regulations to double the fees for detention and storage of seized e-scooters have also been agreed by the Government and will take effect on October 2.
On that date fees will rise to €80 for detention and the first day of storage of a seized e-scooter and €30 for each additional day of storage.
These regulations follow changes which came into effect on September 4, making helmets and high-visibility clothing mandatory for e-scooter users.
Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety, Seán Canney said making the changes to the rules around e-scooters is a “sensible measure that will help protect road users and promote responsible use”.
“Our focus is on ensuring that active and sustainable travel options can continue to grow in a way that is safe for everyone, whether in urban centres or rural communities,” he added.
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