Be it for a trip to the grocery store, rushing to a meeting, or simply catching a breath of fresh air, electric scooters are fast and fun. Surprisingly, permits and state laws are just minor speed bumps. The real hurdle as an e-scooter owner is the constant risk of accidents.
Below we have listed some safety precautions to help you loosen up when you’re on the road.
Wear Protective Gear
The multiple risks of injuries by e-scooter accidents make it necessary to prioritize wearing protective gear.
You should wear a helmet, as well as gloves for a better grip on the handlebars. If you’re new to this way of commuting, wearing knee and elbow pads will help break your fall and protect the skin from scratches or scars. Professional riding glasses or just plain sunglasses can also help keep the blinding sun and distracting flies out of sight.
Prevent Distractions
Texting and riding an electric scooter is definitely out of the equation. Riding with one hand on the handlebar can easily result in loss of balance and control.
You must remain focused on the road, look out for oncoming traffic, slow down when turning and keep both hands on at all times. Another safety tip to keep in mind is doing hand signals or installing a bell or horn to alert pedestrians.
Avoid Double-Riding
While letting your friend hop on for just a few blocks may seem like a good idea, the dangers of double-riding are sure to make you reconsider. Having two passengers aboard can cause the scooter to skid, overload the engine, and risk puncturing.
Moreover, the insufficient space and suspension limits make it a pretty rough ride.
Conduct Regular Inspections
You may not be able to do much to avert an accident on the road. However, you can conduct regular checks at home to help lower your chances of getting hurt. A brief look-over right before taking the scooter out and a weekly, thorough inspection are a must.
Here are a few at-risk components you should go over:
- Tire pressure and treads
- Bolts or screws
- Brakes and brake discs
- Folding mechanism
Conclusion
Being paranoid will not make things any easier. Instead, try being cautious and in control of the vehicle as only these can assure your safety. It is also best to avoid traffic and weather conditions that could put you at risk. Lastly, remember to keep your eyes on the road, your hands firmly on the bars, and don’t forget to feel the wind in your hair!
