Scrambler and E-Bike Misuse Raises Safety Concerns in Dublin
Dublin residents and local councillors are expressing growing alarm over the increasing and perilous misuse of scramblers, quads, e-bikes, and particularly electric scramblers, within the city. The concerns stem from a rise in incidents involving these vehicles, including serious injuries to pedestrians and their connection to criminal activity.
Fianna Fáil councillor John-Kingsley Onwumereh highlighted the issue, stating the frequency of incidents is “a huge concern” and noting the particular danger posed by electric scramblers due to their quiet operation and speed, allowing them to “sneak up on you.” He is advocating for stricter regulations and mandatory registration of these vehicles.
Recent incidents underscore the risks. In May, a 63-year-old woman sustained serious injuries in a hit-and-run on Gardiner Street. Earlier this year, a woman was hospitalized after being struck by a teenager riding a scrambler while waiting at a Luas stop.
An Garda Síochána reports a “proactive approach” to addressing the illegal use of these vehicles. Empowered by Section 109A of the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, gardaí can now arrest individuals without a warrant and seize vehicles found within a property’s boundaries if they are deemed to cause “public nuisance or endanger public safety.”
Seizure numbers demonstrate a critically important increase in enforcement. In the Dublin Metropolitan Area, 164 scramblers, quads, and e-bikes were seized in the first four months of 2024, compared to 128 in all of 2023 and 67 in 2022.
Authorities also note that these vehicles are frequently used in the commission of crimes, including burglary, theft, and drug dealing. gardaí are now permitted to pursue individuals operating these vehicles dangerously, though prioritizing avoidance of pursuits due to public safety concerns.
The north inner city of Dublin is particularly affected, with drivers frequently observed riding on footpaths, ignoring traffic signals, exceeding speed limits, and performing dangerous stunts. Green Party councillor Janet Horner described the behavior as “obnoxious,” ”flagrant,” and “upsetting” for residents, adding that it creates an intimidating surroundings and suggests a lack of enforcement against criminal activity. She noted an increase in such behaviour during the summer months.Local councillors have held meetings with Garda representatives, requesting increased enforcement and a “zero tolerance” policy towards illegal scrambler use. They emphasize the need for a strong message that these vehicles are “completely unacceptable.”
Councillor Horner suggested providing designated spaces for responsible use, such as the motocross track in Clontarf, as a potential outlet for young people’s energy.
