Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Transport Darren O’Rourke TD today called for legislation to be introduced urgently to regulate the use of e-scooters.
Teachta O’Rourke’s comments come as figures he has received shows the number of collisions involving e-scooters has increased from three in 2018 to 59 so far this year.
Speaking today, the Meath East TD said: “The popularity of e-scooters has accelerated in recent years, with a significant number of people now using them to commute to and from work and school.
“This rapid growth has bypassed current road traffic legislation and has left significant gaps in the law that need to be addressed urgently.
“E-scooters are a cleaner, cheaper form of transport compared to cars, and their use is only expected to grow, so laws are needed to govern their appropriate use.
“Figures I have received from the Minister for Justice show 91 e-scooters have been seized or detained so far this year, while 46 traffic offences involving e-scooter users have also been recorded in 2020.
“Most worryingly is the number of collisions involving e-scooters, which has increased from three in 2018 to 37 so far this year, highlighting the urgent need for action.
“It is vital legislation is put in place to ensure the safety of both e-scooter users, pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.
“The lack of regulations pose a challenge for Gardaí and could leave e-scooter users personally liable if they are involved in a collision.
“Introducing laws isn’t about punishing e-scooter users, but rather putting protections in place for their safety and the safety of cyclists, pedestrians and motorists.
“Government have committed, in the Programme for Government, to legislate for e-scooters but say their focus is on Covid-19 related matters now.
“As we head into the Christmas period, with the use of public transport limited and many more people likely considering e-scooters as a transport option, it is essential that the Government bring forward their proposals without delay.”
