Electric Scooter Safety |
Electric Scooter Safety
It may seem that you are only riding on a toy and don’t need to take safety seriously, but hospitals are seeing a surge in patients who have sustained injuries on these electric mobility machines. If you run across a scooter on city sidewalk and decide to take it for a spin, there are some things you need to be aware of and some safety tips to follow if you want to keep yourself free of injury.
1. Look Out for Grates
Unlike bicycles and mopeds that can ride over sewers and grates with ease, these electric scooters have tiny wheels that can get caught in the spaces. If your scooter gets caught, you could very well end up flying over the handlebars. Avoid sewers and grates if you can.
2. Avoid Damp Roads
Wet roads will make the small tires of the scooters lose traction faster than a bicycle or vehicle would. Avoid riding the scooters on damp roads or during a rainstorm. You’re far safer to walk somewhere or jump in your car.
3. Be Wary of Busy Sidewalks…
If you choose to ride the scooter on a sidewalk, you’re going to have to duck around pedestrians, cracks, holes and pets. You’re also going to get the stink eye. That said, it’s really a catch-22 — do you ride on the sidewalk or do you ride on the road? Neither option is safer than the other, nor less bothersome.
4. …And Busy Roads
If you do choose to ride on the road in lieu of the sidewalk, you’re going to be mingling with vehicles much larger and faster than you. If there is a bike lane, stay in it. If you are passing a row of parked cars, be careful of any driver who may be opening their car door.
5. Wear a Helmet
This tip is a bit difficult to follow, because who actually carries a helmet with them at all times? Virtually no one. It really is the smartest thing you can do though. If you know you are going to be taking advantage of these scooters on a regular basis, you may want to invest in a helmet and toss it in your bag.
6. Stay Aware
The same tips people are encouraged to follow when riding a bicycle or walking down the sidewalk apply to those on electric scooters. Stay aware of your surroundings, put your phone in your pocket and keep your earbuds out. Practice the art of watching the ground in front of you while looking ahead of you. It’s a delicate balance.
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