Council launches National Day of Action to tackle unsafe use of E‑Scooters and Scramblers

South Dublin County Council launched the National Day of Action for Powered Personal Transporters and Scramblers on August 12, to raise awareness of proper road use and safety precautions.

In support with An Garda Síochana, this event aims to educate members of the public on the safe use of e-scooters and scramblers through social media and other public information outlets.

SDCC Libraries, with SDCC and AGS public areas, have also taken the time to share valuable and potentially life-saving information on the subject.

This safety campaign highlights several legal requirements that PPT and scrambler users must adhere to, including the ban on e-scooters using footpaths.

Motorists are also responsible in regards to the safety of these road users, as they must give at least 1 metre clearance when overtaking an E-Scooter in speed zones that are 50km/h or under and at least 1.5 metres in speed zones over 50km/h.

SDCC and An Garda Síochana have emphasised the fact that scramblers are not a toy and are not allowed to use the road.

The newly established Grace’s Law permits Gardaí to seize any scrambler or quad bike that is used in public areas.

Scramblers may still be used on private land by the landowner, or with their written consent, and in designated sports facilities, but they must be transported to and from those locations.

Mayor of South Dublin Cllr Francis Timmons welcomed the road safety campaign and applauded members of An Garda Síochana and SDCC for their efforts in bringing the campaign to life.

“Every time you ride your E- scooters, remember you are a Vulnerable Road User and must obey the Rules of the Road in relation to E- scooters and Scramblers.

“Don’t put yourself or other vulnerable road users at risk, particularly pedestrians that may be using the foot path, where E- scooters & Scramblers are not allowed.”

Road Safety Officer at South Dublin County Council, Orlaith Maguire, said:

“The campaign is aimed at raising awareness about the responsibilities both of E-scooter riders, drivers of cars, trucks and all other road users who share the road with them.

“By promoting protective equipment, responsible speed, increased visibility, mutual respect on the road, we can adapt and change drivers and PPT riders’ behaviour to reflect a safer road user”.

To date, 115 people have lost their lives on Irish roads, which includes four e -Scooter or e-bike riders.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme