Electric scooters have become an increasingly popular mode of urban transportation. They provide a fun, affordable, and environmentally friendly way to get around. However, safety should always be the number one priority for any rider. This beginner’s guide covers all the key tips for how to ride an electric scooty safely.
How to Be Safe on an Electric Scooter
Wear Protective Gear
A helmet approved for bicycling or skateboarding use is an absolute must while riding a scooter. Head injuries are the most common and severe injuries resulting from scooter accidents, but properly wearing a helmet can reduce the risk by up to 85%.
Follow Traffic Laws
Electric scooters are considered vehicles in most places, so they comply with all applicable traffic laws, just like a car. Ride in the same direction on the proper side of the road and obey all signs, signals, right-of-way rules and speed limits. Yield to pedestrians by always giving them the right of way on sidewalks.
Avoid Distractions
Never use a cell phone or wear headphones while operating your scooter, as this causes distracted riding, which greatly increases all risks. Keep both hands on the handlebars at all times for proper control.
Stay Sober
Riding under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs that slow reaction times or impair judgment, vision, and coordination creates hazardous conditions for scooter drivers. Intoxication plays a role in many e-scooter-related ER visits and fatalities since normal rider abilities required to balance and navigate safely are dangerously altered.
Avoid Common Mistakes While Riding
Sudden Braking or Turning
Stopping on the brake without properly signalling or looking behind you startles both vehicles and pedestrians around you. Swerving sharply or turning abruptly also increases the risks of losing control or balance, resulting in falls. Always ride in a predictable straight path and brake gradually over longer distances while signalling all turning intentions well in advance.
