Introduction: E-Scooters Are Freedom
An electric scooter isn’t just transport anymore.
It’s freedom from traffic. A greener way to commute. A faster way across town without parking stress or fuel costs. More and more riders across Ireland are choosing e-scooters because they’re efficient, affordable, and genuinely enjoyable to ride.
But here’s the truth:
Owning the streets also means riding responsibly.
At LOCO Scooters, safety isn’t about slowing down the fun — it’s about giving riders the confidence to ride every day, in every condition, without unnecessary risk.
This guide covers everything from beginner basics to advanced riding awareness so you can ride smarter, safer, and with total confidence.
Why E-Scooter Safety Matters More Than You Think
Most scooter incidents happen because of:
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Speeding
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Poor riding posture
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Lack of visibility
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Ignoring road awareness
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Mechanical issues that weren’t checked beforehand
The good news? Nearly all of these are preventable.
A safe rider is simply a prepared rider.
The Complete E-Scooter Safety Guide
1. The Basics: Safe Riding Starts Before You Move
Proper Riding Stance (The Stability Rule)
Standing correctly dramatically improves balance and reaction time.
Correct stance:
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One foot forward, one behind
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Most of your weight on the rear foot
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Knees slightly bent
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Weight centred
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Relaxed arms
The 10-Second Pre-Ride Safety Check
Before every ride:
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Test brakes
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Check tyre pressure
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Confirm lights are working
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Look for loose or damaged parts
Professional riders treat this like putting on a seatbelt — automatic and essential.
Smooth Acceleration & Braking
Electric scooters deliver instant torque.
Ride safer by:
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Accelerating gradually
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Braking early rather than suddenly
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Using balanced braking pressure
Sudden braking shifts weight forward and causes most beginner falls.
2. Essential Safety Gear for E-Scooter Riders
Helmets: Non-Negotiable Safety
A helmet is the single most effective safety upgrade you can make.
Look for:
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Certified bike or skate helmets
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Proper fit (no movement when shaking head)
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Secure chin strap
Recommended Riding Gear
For everyday commuting:
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Gloves for grip and protection
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Closed-toe footwear
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Reflective clothing or accessories
3. Irish Road Rules Every E-Scooter Rider Should Follow
Understanding road behaviour keeps both riders and pedestrians safe.
Do not speed
Slow down in public. Going fast is for private property use only.
Respect Pedestrians First
Slow down in shared spaces and give clear right of way.
Follow Traffic Signals
Predictability is safety. Drivers react better when riders behave like other road users.
Avoid Riding on Footpaths
Scooters should be used in:
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Bike lanes
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Roads
Footpaths increase collision risk and reduce reaction time.
Irish E-Scooter Regulations You Need to Know
E-scooter users must:
- Be 16 years or older.
- Obey a speed limit of 20km/h.
- Drive on the left. E-scooters are allowed in cycle or bus lanes and on local, regional or national roads.
- Have lights, a bell or audible warning device, reflectors and brakes on their e-scooter and it must be kept in a roadworthy condition at all times.
- 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.
E-scooter users must NOT:
- Use footpaths, pedestrianised areas or motorways.
- Hold or use a mobile phone.
- Have a seat on their e-scooter.
- Carry passengers (for example, carry children to school).
- Carry goods (for example, food or parcel delivery).
4. Advanced Riding Awareness (Pro-Level Safety)
Once comfortable riding, awareness becomes your greatest safety tool.
Avoid the “Door Zone”
Stay at least one metre away from parked cars to avoid suddenly opened doors.
Reading Road Surfaces
Common hazards in Ireland include:
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Wet leaves
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Painted road markings
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Gravel near curbs
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Drain covers
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Potholes
Reduce speed when surfaces look shiny or uneven.
Night Riding Safety
Visibility matters more than speed.
Always:
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Use front and rear lights
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Wear reflective clothing
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Avoid fully dark clothing
Drivers notice movement and reflection faster than colour alone.
5. Riding Safely in Irish Weather
Rain doesn’t mean you can’t ride — it means you ride differently.
When roads are wet:
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Reduce speed by 20–30%
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Brake earlier
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Avoid sharp turns
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Increase stopping distance
- Don't accelerate or break during bends, the power of the motor and breaks can slide the scooter out from under you
Smooth riding inputs prevent loss of traction.
6. Maintenance: Why a Well-Maintained Scooter Is a Safe Scooter
Mechanical issues are one of the most overlooked safety risks.
Regular maintenance ensures:
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Reliable braking
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Stable steering
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Proper tyre grip
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Electrical reliability
Frequent Rider Checks
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Tyre pressure
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Brake feel
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Bolt tightness
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Light functionality
Annual Professional Inspection
A yearly inspection helps detect hidden wear before it becomes dangerous.
Professional servicing checks:
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Brake systems
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Bearings and suspension
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Motor performance
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Electronics
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Structural safety
7. Smart Rider Habits That Prevent Accidents
Experienced riders develop habits that dramatically reduce risk:
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Assume drivers haven’t seen you
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Make eye contact at junctions
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Avoid phone use while riding
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Keep both hands on handlebars
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Scan ahead continuously
Safety is mostly anticipation — not reaction.
E-Scooter Safety FAQ
Are e-scooters safe to ride?
Yes — when used responsibly with proper gear, awareness, and maintenance. Most risks come from rider behaviour rather than the scooter itself.
Do I need a helmet on an electric scooter?
Strongly recommended. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injury and are considered essential safety equipment.
Is riding an e-scooter in the rain safe?
Yes, but riders should reduce speed, brake earlier, and avoid slippery surfaces like painted road markings.
How often should an e-scooter be serviced?
At minimum, once per year professionally, with regular rider checks performed frequently.
What It Means to Be a LOCO Rider
At LOCO Scooters, we believe micro-mobility works best when riders lead by example.
Being a LOCO rider means:
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Riding confidently but responsibly
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Respecting pedestrians and traffic
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Maintaining your scooter properly
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Helping make e-scooters a trusted part of Irish transport
Because the goal isn’t just getting there faster.
It’s getting there safely — every single time.
LOCO Care
LOCO Care is an annual scooter service subscription designed to make ownership simpler and more predictable. Instead of worrying about unexpected repairs or maintenance, your scooter is looked after by LOCO’s in-house technicians at our dedicated repair centres. With structured servicing, expert support, and coverage tailored to real riders, LOCO Care helps keep your scooter safe, reliable, and ready for every journey.
Sign up today here.
Ready to Ride Safer?
If your scooter needs a safety check, brake adjustment, or annual inspection, visit your nearest LOCO Scooters store or speak with our repair team.
We’ll keep your scooter running smoothly — and safely.
Ride smart. Ride safe. Ride LOCO.
