This Friday, the Government will launch new e-scooter safety measure.
The new measures make helmets and high-visibility clothing mandatory for those using e-scooters.
However, an increase in the age limit from 16 to 18 years will not be put in place until later in the year, RTE have reported.
Experts have raised concerns about the new legislation, with a consultant in emergency medicine warning that it will be ineffective without stronger enforcement powers.
Dr John Legge said via RTE that those using e-scooters should be expected to wear the same type of helmet as those suitable for mopeds.
Legge stated on RTE's Morning Ireland that without enforcement, there will be "no change". "It's all well and good to give the impression that we're taking this issue seriously. We're demanding new legislation, and it's been rushed through," Legge said.
"That's fine, but how is it going to be enforced? So without enforcement, you're not going to see a significant change," he added.
Legge also raised a concern that it may be challenging to tell the difference between a 16-year-old and an 18-year-old on an e-scooter.
The Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West, Shane Moynihan said via RTE that they welcome the e-scooter legislations as a "step towards better regulation," but there needs to be more of an understanding on how to use them safely.
Moynihan said that it is important to find a balance that encourages responsible e-scooter use while ensuring any new system remains practical for regular, safe users, as he stated that "they do have a place in our transport infrastructure."
The move for safety legislations comes in response to the increasing numbers of serious injuries and fatalities associated with e-scooter usage.
The current clampdown on e-scooter usage comes shortly after the HSE and Children's Health Ireland released data that showed a concerning pattern of serious and life changing injuries caused by e-scooters.
According to The Journal, more than a third of paediatric traumatic brain injury admissions at CHI at Temple Street in 2026 were linked to e-scooter incidents.
The number of children admitted with traumatic brain injuries following e-scooter accidents has risen by 50% over the past year.
Last weekend, Gardai in Gorey, Co Wexford observed a 12-year-old boy driving an e-scooter above the recommended 20km/h speed set for the scooter. After they stopped the young boy, they found that he was travelling up to 70km/h.
A representative from An Garda Síochána highlighted the safety risks associated with underage use of e-scooters, as well as the dangers posed by excessive speed.
“Gardaí are reminding parents and young people to be aware of the significant safety risks associated with high-powered e-scooters and other personal transporters,” a Garda spokesperson said.
