A LIMERICK group is encouraging the public to be aware of new safety regulations around an increasingly popular Christmas present.
The Limerick Road Safety Working Together Group is encouraging people to make themselves aware of new regulations governing e-scooter use.
With Christmas approaching, the group says that anyone considering purchasing an e-scooter as a gift should make themselves familiar with the rules around e-scooter riding across Ireland.
Under the Road Traffic (Electric Scooters) Regulations 2024, e-scooters must be restricted to a maximum speed of 20km/h, must have front and rear lights, and they are only permitted to be ridden by those aged 16 or over.
E-scooters must also have a working breaking system, and feature a bell or a horn.
Under the rules, those riding e-scooters are also not permitted to have any passengers, and scooters must not be fitted with a seat.
It is also an offence to ride e-scooters on public footpaths, unless crossing to enter or exit a property.
Those thinking of buying an e-scooter for Christmas either for themselves or as a present for someone else are urged to make sure they buy from a reputable retailer or distributor.
The Limerick Road Safety Working Together Group also stressed the importance of making sure that e-scooters have the CE mark, which indicates compliance with European safety standards.
Limerick Road Safety Working Together says it is are committed to “ensuring all residents can enjoy the convenience of e-scooters responsibly”.
The group is an inter-agency group comprising representatives from Limerick City and County Council, An Garda Síochána, the National Ambulance Service, Fire Service, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Limerick Cycling Campaign, and Limerick Pedestrian Network.
