Local Gardai have issued warnings over the use of scrambler motorbikes or quads on public roads.
The warnings were issued as an increasing number of parents buy such vehicles for children or younger adults.
Garda Sgt Charlene Anderson issued the warning saying many accidents or fatalities we hear of involve young people.
She said “We are advising parents who may be considering buying these for their children or for parents who allow their children to use them in a public place to be aware that all Road Traffic legal requirements must be fully complied with.
“In order to use a vehicle in a public place, a range of requirements must be satisfied and the vehicle must comply with vehicle standards regulations. Quads are designed for off-road use and do not conform to regulations in relation to tyres, lights, indicators, etc and it is therefore illegal to use them on the road.
“Mini-motos (small motorbikes) and quads are only allowed to be used on private land and only with the permission of the landowner.”
For a rider to use a mini motorised vehicle in a public place, they must:
• Be over the age of 16
• Wear a helmet
• Hold a valid driving licence
• Hold third party insurance
• Hold the appropriate motor tax certificate
Garda Anderson said that these are required by Road Traffic Law and those found to have breached these requirements are liable to penalties enforced by An Garda Síochána.
Mini motorised vehicles are legally termed ‘mechanically propelled vehicles’ (MPVs) and are governed by the Road Traffic Act 2004 which makes it an offence to supply a mechanically propelled vehicle to a person under 16 years of age for use in a public place.
She warned “A person is liable to a fine of up to €5,000 or 6 months in prison, or both for selling or supplying a ‘mechanically propelled vehicles’ to a minor. Mini-motorised motorcycles and quadbikes also come within this definition.
“Quads and scramblers are not toys. When in inexperienced hands or on unsuitable terrain they have the potential to severely or even fatally injure someone. They are totally unsuitable for children. The last thing anyone wants is a tragedy.”
