Electric Scooter Safety Guide
Tips & Precautions for a safe ride
INTRODUCTION
Address the misconception that electric scooters are inherently dangerous. Emphasize that the scooter itself is safe, but safety largely depends on the rider's actions and precautions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Electric Scooters Are Safe
Pre-Ride Inspection Is Crucial
Importance of Wearing a Helmet
Ride Solo for Safety
Stay Focused and Aware
Are Electric Scooters Safe?
Discuss statistics and studies that show the most common accidents involve inexperienced riders not wearing helmets. One study shows that 33% of head injuries are due to not wearing helmets and 83% of accidents are not caused by a collision but falls.
PRE-RIDE INSPECTION
Why It's Important
Explain that most people just hop on and go, which is risky. A short pre-ride check can help avoid accidents. Especially important with share scooters.
WHAT TO CHECK
- Throttle and Brake: Ensure / operate properly. Brakes need to be in good shape.
- Tires: Check for damage and ensure they are air-filled.
- Battery Level: Make sure it's sufficient for your trip.
- Lights: Especially important if you plan to ride in the dark.
ESSENTIAL SAFETY GEAR
Importance of Wearing a Helmet
Always wear a helmet, even for short trips. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries.
ADDITIONAL GEAR
Wearing gloves and elbow pads can provide extra protection. If you have your own daily commuter scooter, wearing additional gear is a no-brainer.
RIDING TECHNIQUES
Solo Riding
Electric scooters are designed for one person. Riding tandem can affect the scooter's balance and braking.
PROPER POSTURE
Maintain a skateboard/snowboard position for maximum balance. Leaning into corners and leaning back under heavy braking is a technique that takes some practice to perfect.
SAFE RIDING PRACTICES
Avoid Distractions
Never use your phone while riding. Distractions can be fatal. You need to look out for other vehicles and traffic in general.
ROAD AWARENESS
Always keep an eye out for potholes, wet patches, and other road imperfections. Reading the surface and road conditions is one of the most important things as far as e-scooter safety tips go.
WEATHER CONDITIONS
Avoid riding in the rain or during other bad weather conditions. Be aware of the lower grip, slick patches, and white lines and avoid fast speeds.
PEDESTRIAN AREAS
Avoid pedestrian areas as much as possible. Always use a bell or horn to alert people of your presence. Know your local laws; you might not be allowed to ride in certain areas.
LEGAL ASPECTS
Use common sense and follow the as you would when driving a car. Never ride drunk or in ways intoxicated. Try to avoid main roads with heavy traffic. Know your local laws. You might not be allowed to ride in the park where you live.
MAINTENANCE
Regular Checks
Regularly check and tighten screws and bolts. Make sure the brake lever and foldable handlebars are secure.
MAINTENANCE TIPS
Keeping your electric scooter in good condition is easy and does not require much effort. Check and if needed, retighten screws and bolts regularly.
ADVANCED SAFETY TIPS
Slow Down Before Turning
Slow down before looking back or turning. Turning in traffic is always risky. Most scooters don't have need to look over mirrors so you need to look over your shoulder.
INDICATING TURNS
If your scooter doesn't have a turn signal, you can point with your arm but letting go of the handlebars is scary so you might want to poke your leg or foot out instead.
COMMON MISTAKES AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Overconfidence
The main problem, or challenge, with e-scooter users is the attitude of the average rider. It seems people think there is no need to be wary and they treat it like a toy. This leads to accidents.
LACK OF ATTENTION
Rider error and lack of paying attention most likely is the main reason for accidents. Stay focused is probably the best tip apart from always wearing a helmet.
ADVANCED TIPS SUMMARY
- Slow Down Before Turning
- Indicate your turns
- Be aware of your surroundings
CONCLUSION
Reiterate the importance of rider responsibility in ensuring electric Scooter Safety. The most important electric Scooter Safety tips will always be the helmet, and as much other body protection as you want to protect. Stay focused and paying attention will help avoid accidents.
FINAL THOUGHTS
- Importance of Helmets
- Legal Aspects to consider
- Maintenance is key