Rise in illegal use of scooters in Galway

Gardai are concerned

GALWAY Gardaí have seen a significant rise in the illegal e-scooters around the city in recent months.

They are reminding the public that there are laws governing the use of the vehicles that must be abided by. The gardaí are concerned about the safety of those using the scooters and that of other road users and pedestrians.

The public are reminded that e-scooters aren’t to be used by anyone under 16 years of age. There is a speed limit of 20km/h and users must drive on the left. E-scooters are allowed in cycle or bus lanes and on local roads but not on footpaths.

E-scooters must have lights, a bell or audible warning device, reflectors and brakes and it must be kept in a roadworthy condition at all times.

Users cannot hold or use a mobile phone, have a seat on the scooter or carry passengers of goods.

It is illegal to use an e-scooter while intoxicated and users mMust obey signals given by a Garda or school warden and follow the same rules of the road that apply to cyclists, including traffic lights, road signs, and all types of pedestrian crossings.