Gardai in Offaly town seize two e-scooters for variety of offences
Edenderry Gardai stress 'e-scooters are not toys - they are mechanically propelled vehicles and carry real safety risks'
Gardaí in Edenderry seized two e-scooters on Sunday last. The scooters were over the maximum speed, over the maximum battery power and over the maximum weight.
In a Facebook post, Gardai said: "We want to take this oppurtunity to remind everyone about the laws in place regarding the use of electric scooters and e-bikes.
E-scooter users must be 16 years or over, obey a speed limit of 20km/h, drive on the left - allowed only in cycle lanes or bus lanes and on regional or national roads, have lights, a bell or audible warning device, reflectors, brakes, and the scooter must be in a roadworthy condition, follow the same rules of the road that apply to cyclists and obey signals given by a Garda or School Warden."
"E-scooter users must not use footpaths or pedestrianised areas, hold or use a mobile telephone, have a seat on their e-scooter, carry passengers or goods or use the scooter while intoxicated."
"E-scooters must not exceed the maximum design speed of 20 km/h, exceed the maximum unladen weight of 25kg or exceed the maximum power output of 400W.
"E-scooters may only be used if they comply with road traffic legislation. Devices that exceed the limits referred to above or are used unlawfully can be seized.
"While protective equipment is not compulsory, it is strongly recommended.
"Parents are asked to ensure that any e-scooter purchased or used by a young person complies with the law.
"These scooters are not toys - they are mechanically propelled vehicles and carry real safety risks.
"Our focus is prevention. Let's work together to reduce serious and fatal road collisions."