DistantNews
Support us
E-scooter users to need license and insurance under Irish government proposals
🇮🇪 Ireland /Crime & Justice

E-scooter users to need license and insurance under Irish government proposals

From Irish Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • The Irish government is exploring new regulations for e-scooter users, including mandatory licenses and insurance.
  • Proposed measures aim to increase safety following a rise in injuries, particularly among children.
  • Stricter rules will raise the minimum user age to 18, mandate helmets, and increase fines for violations.

The Irish government is considering new legislation that would require e-scooter users to obtain a driving license and secure insurance. These proposals are part of a broader effort to regulate the rapidly growing use of e-scooters and address a concerning increase in accidents, especially involving young people.

very worrying increase in the number of severe and serious accidents that particularly young people are experiencing

— Darragh O’BrienThe Minister for Transport explained the rationale behind the proposed new regulations for e-scooters.

Following a recent Cabinet meeting, plans were approved to raise the minimum age for e-scooter riders from 16 to 18. Additionally, the use of helmets and high-visibility clothing will become mandatory. These regulations are expected to come into effect by the end of August, accompanied by increased fines for rule breaches, doubling from €50 to €100.

very frightening to think that there are young children up in Temple Street [Hospital] at the moment on life support when they should be out enjoying this fine weather

— Seán CanneyThe Minister of State at the Department of Transport expressed concern about the severity of e-scooter accidents involving children.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien highlighted the "very worrying increase in the number of severe and serious accidents" affecting young people. Seán Canney, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, urged parents to prevent children from using e-scooters, expressing concern over young children currently on life support in Temple Street Hospital.

If I give my car to a 16-year-old, I am responsible for that. It will be the same way with an e-scooter.

— Seán CanneyThe Minister of State explained the principle of owner responsibility for e-scooter usage.

Further amendments to road traffic legislation in September will include requirements for e-scooter registration, mandatory insurance, and the need for users to hold a valid driving license or learner's permit. While specific training or testing requirements are still under consideration, O’Brien indicated that these aspects would be addressed before legislation is finalized, potentially by year's end. Existing e-scooter owners will need to register their vehicles, and the registered owner will be held responsible for any violations, similar to car ownership rules.

It’s about saving lives. It’s about keeping people out of the hospitals.

— Seán CanneyThe Minister of State emphasized the life-saving goal of the new e-scooter regulations.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Irish Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog