Road Safety Action Plan promotes safe use of Electric Scooters
Waterford City and County Council, in conjunction with the Waterford Road Safety Working Together Group (WRSWTG) recently launched an initiative to promote the safe use of e-scooters and highlight the dangers of illegally modified e-scooters.
The Council, together with An Garda Síochána, Road Safety Authority, Health Service Executive and Treo Port Láirge, emphasised that modified e-scooters have no place on our roads.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said, “The importance of safety for all road users cannot be overstated. Whether its motorists, cyclists, pedestrians or scooters, it is up to us all to act responsibly and with consideration for others as soon as we sit behind a wheel, or step foot on a scooter.”
Gabriel Hynes, A/Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council said, “Last year we launched the Waterford Road Safety Action Plan, with the singular objective of making our roads safer for everyone.
“The Road Safety Plan aligns to the 2020 Programme for government commitment to achieve ‘Vision Zero’ – no fatalities or serious injuries on our roads by 2050, with the Road Safety Action Plan focusing on several key areas including safe roads, safe speeds, post-crash response and safe modes of transport.”
Jemma Jacob, Road Safety Officer with Waterford City and County Council added, “E-scooter users must adhere to the rules of the road and familiarise themselves with the relevant traffic laws and regulations. Equally, they must be conscious of other road users by not travelling on footpaths or pedestrianised areas and always ensuring the roadworthiness of an e-scooter before setting off.
“For their own safety and the safety of other road users it is imperative that they remain visible and vigilant, wear hi-vis clothing and helmets and obey the 20km/h speed limit, however, modified e-scooters, which can reach speeds of 100km/h are dangerous, illegal and have no place on our roads.”
Treo Port Láirge, a community-based organisation which reduces criminal activity by providing educational, social and vocational support to 16- to 23-year-olds. The organisation promotes the safe use of e-scooters and e-bikes.
Danny Murphy CEO Treo Port Láirge said, “E-scooters are an increasingly popular, affordable, and environmentally friendly alternative to car ownership, offering flexibility and independence to many in our community. However, safety must always come first.
“It is also important to recognise the serious dangers associated with modified e-scooters, particularly those altered to increase speed or power, as these changes significantly raise the risk of accidents and serious injury.”
Mr. Murphy added, “By acting responsibly, avoiding illegal modifications, and respecting road traffic regulations, we can help keep Waterford’s roads and footpaths safe for everyone.”
Gardaí in Waterford’s Road Policing Unit showcased a speed measurement which determines the speed of e-scooters. With 20km/h the maximum speed allowed, the device can identify modified e-scooters and e-bikes.
