7 Things to Keep in Mind While Using a Scooter

Scooters have become a viable form of transportation. The electric scooters allow riders to zip around downtown areas with minimal effort. Others still prefer to ride the self-balancing and kick versions. 

Nonetheless, the safety tips we’ll outline apply to all versions.

In some states, scooters can ride on the streets. In others, they must ride on the sidewalks. The ideal place to ride them is bike lanes.

Thus, riders must become aware of the state and local laws governing this mode of transportation. You want to avoid receiving a citation for something that you should know.

It makes sense why some individuals prefer to hop on alternative transportation in cities such as Downtown Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City. For others, scooters leave a small carbon footprint behind so an environmental component exists.

College students like them when criss-crossing expansive campuses. 

Keep in mind that riding scooters put individuals in potentially dangerous situations, especially if the rider doesn’t take them seriously. If you find yourself involved in an accident, the team at JT Legal Group has scooter accident experience.

When you prefer this alternative transportation method, the following are seven things to keep in mind while using a scooter.

1. Use Protective Gear

Some states require riders to wear a helmet – they apply the same rules to bicycle and hoverboard riders. In addition, it’s worth investing in elbow and knee pads, just in case Then, dress appropriately.

During the cold season, it’s best to wear a coat or jacket. However, you don’t want either one flapping around while you ride, so plan your outfits before riding.

Scooter ridership has increased. It stood at 38.5 million and increased to 88.5 million in one year. Logically, the increased ridership has led to more scooter-related accidents. 

Some researchers believe that scooter-related accidents lead to worse results than motorcycle accidents. For every 100,000 trips on scooters, one-fourth will end up in the emergency room and 25% will require surgery.

Thus, take precautions before heading out. 

2. Pick the Right Scooter

Those who plan to regularly ride scooters to work or school must pick the right one.

When purchasing it, consider the:

  • Wheel size
  • Suspension
  • Engineering quality
  • Overall size and weight

eScooters are heavy pieces of machinery. If you tip over and it falls on you, the machine will cause some injuries.

More importantly, pick a model that receives solid ratings since it’s an investment.

3. Maintain the Scooter

Downtown areas have partnerships with scooter providers. Therefore, residents and visitors can rent them as needed. If you purchase one, learn how to maintain it.

Scooter maintenance includes regular cleanings, checking the air pressure, changing the oil, and inspecting the suspension.

Like cars, you want the machinery to run at an optimal level as long as possible.

4. Practice Defensive Riding

Scooter riders must practice defensive riding. Instead of keeping three-car lengths between you and vehicles, you’ll keep a safe distance from pedestrians, bike riders, and other scooter riders.

A study examined by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that most scooter accidents take place on sidewalks. However, when riders opt for roads, they increase their risk of colliding with vehicles.

If you practice defensive riding, you decrease your risk of crashing into others.

5. Mind the Surfaces

Scooters are sensitive to surfaces. If your speed increases too much and you attempt to ride over lifted sidewalks or roads, you risk flying off the scooter.

While riding, mind the surfaces and your speed. In addition, mind the condition of the surfaces. Hydroplaning isn’t the best idea.

6. Ride in the Bike Lanes

City planners continue struggling with figuring out where scooters should ride. If you opt for sidewalks, you will deal with pedestrians, and roads have vehicles.

When it’s an option, ride in the bike lanes. Then, understand the local rules local leaderships have ordained for scooters.

7. Watch Your Speed

Scooters can comfortably travel at 20 mph. Since the machines provide some freedom, especially the electronic versions, some riders go faster.

The faster the speed, the less time you have to stop and slow down if an obstruction suddenly appears.

Thus, watch your mph while riding and remember that you will share the roads and sidewalks with others.

Conclusion

With the rise in gas prices and congested road conditions, it makes sense that individuals continue searching for alternative modes of transportation. If you opt for scooters, use protective gear, practice defensive riding, and ride in the bike lanes whenever possible. Your goal is to make your way around town without ending up in the hospital emergency room.

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