E-scooters have rapidly gained popularity in Ireland as a convenient, eco-friendly mode of transport. With their ability to bridge the gap between short trips and public transport, these compact vehicles have become a staple in cities worldwide. In Ireland, recent changes in legislation have paved the way for safer and more regulated use, prompting the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to launch an awareness campaign focused on helping everyone share the roads safely.

A Growing Trend in Ireland

The introduction of new e-scooter regulations on May 20th marked a significant milestone for Irish road users. E-scooters are now allowed on local, regional, and national roads, as well as bus and cycle lanes, but they come with specific rules designed to ensure safety for all. Riders must be at least 16 years old, and speed limits are capped at 20 km/h. They are not permitted on footpaths, pedestrianised areas, or motorways, reinforcing their role as a vehicle rather than a recreational toy.

With their lightweight design and ability to reduce reliance on private cars, e-scooters have quickly become a symbol of the shift towards more sustainable transport options. Shared schemes like the one introduced by Bolt in Wexford town highlight the growing appetite for micro-mobility solutions, with 59% of surveyed Irish residents saying that e-scooters would encourage them to use their cars less frequently.

RSA’s Campaign: Sharing the Road Safely

To accompany this growing trend, the RSA has launched an extensive campaign to educate both e-scooter users and other road users on the new rules. The message is clear: sharing the road requires mutual understanding and respect.

For motorists, the guidelines are simple but vital. Drivers are advised to give e-scooter users the same level of care as cyclists, including maintaining at least one metre of clearance when overtaking in zones under 50 km/h, and 1.5 meters in higher-speed zones. Similarly, e-scooter riders are reminded to follow the same rules as cyclists, ensuring they are visible, equipped with proper lighting, and compliant with road regulations.

The RSA emphasises the importance of personal safety measures, recommending helmets and high-visibility clothing, particularly during these darker winter months. These steps are not mandatory but are strongly encouraged to enhance rider safety.

Practical Guidelines for E-Scooter Users

Under the new regulations, e-scooters must meet specific technical requirements, such as:

• A maximum speed of 20 km/h
• A maximum weight of 25 kg
• Front and rear lights, reflectors, and a bell
• Brakes and a manufacturer’s plate certifying key specifications

Additionally, riders are advised to familiarise themselves with safety essentials, such as wearing helmets, checking their lights during darker hours, and ensuring their scooters are well-maintained.

Embracing the Change

E-scooters represent an exciting step forward in Ireland’s journey toward sustainable and innovative transport solutions. With the RSA’s campaign ensuring both safety and awareness, and the rising potential to see more shared e-scooters across the country, the future of micro-mobility looks bright.

As we adapt to this new mode of transport, let’s remember that whether you’re an e-scooter user, a cyclist, or a motorist, we’re all sharing the road together. By respecting the rules and each other, we can ensure that this transition is not only smooth but also beneficial for everyone.

For more information on the new e-scooter regulations, visit the RSA’s website here.