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E-Scooter Accident Claims in Ireland – The Hidden Risks of Riding Uninsured: Personal Liability

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E-Scooter Laws 101: No Tax, No Insurance, No Licence? Here’s the Catch

In Ireland, the laws governing e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-mopeds changed significantly on May 20, 2024, under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023. The key difference lies in whether the vehicle is classified as a Powered Personal Transporter (PPT) (e-bicycle and e-scooters)  or a Mechanically Propelled Vehicle (MPV). (E-mopeds)

As of 20 May 2024, the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 governs the use of all e-scooters and e-bikes in Ireland, legalising their presence on Irish roads. It introduced a new vehicle category called Powered Personal Transporters (PPTs). These e-bikes and e-scooters are exempt from tax, insurance, registration, and licensing requirements, identical to standard push bikes and scooters. For an e-scooter to be considered a PPT, it must adhere to the strict technical specifications outlined below. However, if an e-scooter can operate at speeds and power above the legal limits, it will fall into a different category and will be considered an E-moped (PPV), which will then require a licence, registration tax, and insurance. Understanding the rules is vital, as non-compliance can impact your liability in the event of an accident. Below are the specifications for each vehicle type and the categories they fit into.

E-Bike – To be considered a PPT

An e-bike must have a maximum speed of 25 km/ or less and travel at 20km/h or less.

Have a power output of 250 W or less.

Cut off once pedalling stops.

Have front and rear lights.

E-bikes can be used on cycle or bus lanes but they are strictly prohibited on footpaths and pedestrianised zones.

Exempt: Tax, Insurance, licensing requirements

E-Scooter – To be considered a PPT

Age Limit: The rider must be over 16 years of age.

An e-scooter must have a maximum speed of 25 km/ or less, travel at 20km/h or less.

Have a power output of 400 W or less.

Drive on the Left.

E-scooters can be used on cycle or bus lanes, but not on footpaths and pedestrianised zones.

Have front and rear lights.

Like cyclists, e-scooter riders must obey all applicable rules of the road.

Passengers or goods must not be carried on the e-scooter.

Have a manufacturer’s plate with bike specifications.

Exempt: Tax, Insurance, licensing requirements

E-Moped L1e A  – To be considered a MPV

Maximum speed of 25 km/h

Have a power output of 1000 W

Have front and rear lights

Motor type is pedal or throttle

Tax, Insurance: Yes, Required

Licensing requirements: No, Exempt

E-Moped L1e B – To be considered a MPV

Maximum speed of 45 km/h

Have a power output of 4000 W

Have front and rear lights

Motor type is pedal or throttle

Tax, Insurance: Yes, Required

Licensing requirements: Yes, Required

E-Scooter and E-Bike Accident Claims FAQ

E-Scooter Accident & Injury Claims in Ireland

Electric scooters, now a common sight on our tertiary roads and cycle lanes, offer a green and efficient alternative to traditional transport for short journeys. However, as their presence on our roads has surged, so has the rate of accidents such as collisions with cars and bikes.  

Common E-Scooter Accidents Occurring on our Roads

Because e-scooters offer minimal physical protection, injuries are often significant.

Car Door Accidents: These occur when a parked motorist opens a door into the path of an oncoming e-scooter. A helmet will provide only limited protection for the e-scooter driver, but head injuries can still occur when hit by a car door.

Pedestrian Collisions: Often involving soft tissue injuries when a pedestrian is struck by an e-scooter on a footpath or at a junction.

Rear-end & Side Impacts: Collisions caused by cars, buses, or HGVs failing to see the e-scooter rider.

Roundabout & Junction Incidents: Where vulnerable road users are often clipped by turning vehicles.

5 Tips – What to Do if you’ve been in an accident with E-Scooter

If you are involved in a collision, your actions in the immediate aftermath are critical for your health and any future legal claim:

Prioritise Health: Seek medical attention immediately. Even “minor” injuries can have delayed symptoms.

Report to Gardaí: Report the incident to the Gardaí. If they do not attend the scene, visit your local station to provide a statement.

Gather Evidence: Exchange names, contact details, and insurance information. Take photos of the scene, the vehicles involved, and any nearby CCTV cameras. Even if the PPT or MPV doesn’t have insurance, get their name and address.

Track Expenses and medical records: Keep all receipts for medical fees, travel costs, and records of any lost earnings due to time off work.

Legal Advice: Consult a specialised solicitor, as e-scooter laws are still changing and involve complex “PPT vs MPV” classifications. An accident solicitor with road traffic expertise can help assess whether the MIBI are in a position to provide compensation.

Send us a message!

If you have you been injured in road traffic accident contact Synnott Lawline Solicitors 7 days a week for a professional and confidential consultation to discuss your rights and the next steps in your recovery.

014537890

info@lawline.ie

Lawline House, High Street, D08CX34

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