E-Scooter Driver Fined €300 for Lack of Insurance in Kilkenny

A driver operating an e-scooter capable of reaching speeds of up to 51 kilometres per hour was fined €300 at the Kilkenny District Court. The defendant, Abdelhadi Lakhtiri, admitted to the offence that occurred on September 23, 2025, in Purcellsinch, Kilkenny.

On the day of the incident, Garda Andy Neill observed Lakhtiri riding the e-scooter and suspected it was classified as a motorised vehicle. Following this suspicion, Garda Neill stopped Lakhtiri and requested proof of insurance. According to Garda Neill, Lakhtiri was cooperative during the encounter.

After stopping the vehicle, Garda Neill conducted a speed test on the e-scooter, which revealed that it exceeded the legal limit by 31 kilometres per hour. The court was informed that the maximum allowable speed for e-scooters is 20 kilometres per hour.

Lakhtiri, identified as a Moroccan national, acknowledged that he had made “a foolish decision” to operate the e-scooter without insurance. In light of the circumstances, Judge Geraldine Carthy imposed the fine, emphasizing the importance of adhering to traffic regulations.

This case highlights ongoing discussions about the regulation of e-scooters and the need for riders to comply with insurance requirements to ensure safety on the roads.