Ban On E-scooters For Those Under 16 Will Be In Effect

In a bid to enhance road safety, a nationwide ban on e-scooters for individuals under the age of 16 will come into effect next week. The move, spearheaded by Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan, marks a significant shift from previous sentiments regarding enforceability.

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The regulations, which were first intended to be a part of the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, were delayed and are now scheduled to start on May 20. Minister Ryan, who previously deemed age restrictions unenforceable, has since underscored safety concerns as paramount, prompting the change in stance.

New Regulations Enforcing Nationwide Ban on E-Scooters

Under the Road Traffic (Electric Scooters) Regulations, e-scooters would be subject to stringent rules as personal powered carriers. Notably, the maximum speed limit for e-scooters on public roads will be capped at 20 km per hour.

Moreover, the regulations mandate specific requirements regarding braking, lighting, and prohibit the carriage of more than one person at a time. Additionally, the fitting of a seat on e-scooters will be prohibited to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent potential hazards on roads.

These regulations aim to ensure that e-scooters are safe, roadworthy, and do not pose risks to drivers, other road users, or pedestrians. With safety at the forefront, the implementation of these measures signifies a proactive step towards fostering a secure environment for all road users.