E-scooters causing ‘unsafe behaviour on roads’, Limerick gardaí report

Crime Prevention Officer and Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran has warned that e-scooters are causing massive issues on Limerick roads. 

The sergeant said: “we’re seeing a big increase in injuries, near-misses, and really unsafe behaviour on the roads”. 

“Under Irish law, anyone under the age of 16 is banned from using an e-scooter on a public road. The age restriction is not just a guideline; it’s the law”. 

The garda continued: “Even at lower speeds children can be seriously injured. We are talking about broken bones, head injuries, permanent dental injuries.” 

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“When you combine speed, lack of protection, and inexperience, the risk is extremely high, and that is exactly why the law prohibits anyone under sixteen from using them on public roads.”

The requirements for legal e-scooters on the roads are a maximum speed of 20 km/hr, a maximum motor output of 400 watts and a maximum weight of 25 kilos. 

The garda had the following advice for those using e-scooters legally:

• Wear a helmet to protect your head
• Use lights and high-vis clothing
• Don’t carry passengers or goods
• Don’t use your phone 
• Keep within the 20 km/h speed limit 

Sergeant O’Halloran further added that “prevention is far better than cure” when it comes to reducing e-scooter accidents on the road. 

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