Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 October 2024
69. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport to outline the rules for e-scooters being used on secondary roads; if the rules applied are the same as cyclists; and if sufficient headgear is mandatory when driving an e-scooter. [41639/24]
View answerE-scooters which comply with the relevant regulations have been legal to use on Irish roads since May of this year. Requirements include limits on maximum weight, power and design speed, adherence to EU requirements for construction standards and electrical and battery safety and fitment of front and rear lights and reflectors, brakes and a bell. They should also display a manufacturer’s plate certifying the power output, weight and design speed. Technical specifications and usage requirements for e-scooters are set out in detail at gov.ie - E-Bikes, E-Mopeds and E-Scooters (www.gov.ie).
E-scooters are subject to the same rules of the road as pedal cycles and they are permitted to travel on roads, including secondary roads, cycle tracks and bus lanes, but not on footpaths or motorways. The Road Traffic Act 2010 (Part 3) (Fixed Charge Offences) Regulations 2024 provide for a range of fixed charge penalties (currently set at €50) for e-scooter users who fail to comply with either technical or traffic regulations.
As is the case with pedal cyclists, my Department has no plans to introduce a legal requirement for the use of protective helmets by e-scooter users. While both the Department and the Road Safety Authority strongly encourage the use of such protective equipment, making the wearing of helmets compulsory would raise a number of difficulties and constitute a barrier to the uptake of micromobility. It is my belief that the best way to increase helmet use is through educational and publicity campaigns, rather than by pursuing a punitive approach.
