Sometimes don’t you just feel like feeling the air and wind in your hair. Riding around with your scooter without any purpose, while not necessarily being without a purpose, is a great feeling. However, besides traffic there are a few things that you should keep in mind to stay safe. Unlike cars or motorcycles etc scooters are slower and doesn’t offer the protection that other vehicles do.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s important to follow some key safety practices. Below are essential tips for riding your electric scooter safely.
Drive Off The Road
Riding your scooter off the road is the most important safety tip. With smartphones and all the distractions in the world, you never know the recklessness of drivers. Even if you are riding in a bike lane, there are risks of getting hit. So, the pavement or far away from the road is something crucial you should keep in mind.
Bike lanes or worse roads for the matter, you will have vehicles and cars driving at faster speeds and sometimes the drivers can get distracted with many things besides just paying attention on the road. If the bike has railing or protective barrier, then it is safer, but be wary of drivers. Lastly, don’t ride your scooter recklessly. Use hand signals when you are turning left or right so that people behind you know where you are going to turn at least.
Wear Protective Gear
The most important piece of safety equipment when riding an electric scooter is a helmet. In case of a fall or collision, a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. Additionally, if you’re new to riding or plan to travel at higher speeds, consider wearing elbow and knee pads for extra protection. Remember, safety gear is your first line of defense in an accident.
Carry EDC Knife
In case of emergencies, an EDC knife could be something to consider. It can deter attackers or if you need to cut through rope, etc, it’s always a handy tool to have.
Evatac knife is actually free, so you don’t have to spend money on such things. Some of designs come with wrenches and screw drivers, so in case you need to fasten bolts or screws, an EDC knife can be very handy for such occasions.
Fully Charge Your Scooter
While you can manually ride your scooter and pedal your way, if you are far from home and have been riding longer distances, it can take a long time to get back home where you can charge your scooter. Always know how much battery and charge you have.
Most scooters are equipped with batteries that can go 15-20 miles, so when going long distances, pay attention to the battery charge. Better yet, you could bring your charger with you. Gas stations and businesses can be nice enough for you to use your charger on an outlet.
If you will be riding away from people without help, then it’s better to bring a separate battery pack and charge your batteries fully. Cold weather actually interferes with the batteries, so it’s advisable not to ride during cold weather.
Keep Both Hands on the Handlebars
For maximum control and stability, always keep both hands on the handlebars while riding. This might seem like common sense, but distractions like texting, holding bags, or adjusting music can cause you to lose balance or reduce reaction time in critical moments. If you need to use your phone, stop safely before checking it.
Use Hand Signals
If you’re riding in traffic and need to make a turn, it’s essential to communicate your intentions to other road users. Use standard hand signals for turning left or right to ensure that drivers and cyclists know what you’re planning to do. This simple practice can prevent misunderstandings and reduce the risk of accidents.
Avoid Riding in Bad Weather
Electric scooters can be particularly difficult to control in rain, snow, or on wet surfaces. Wet roads reduce traction, making it easier to skid or slide, and rain can also limit your visibility to other drivers. If possible, avoid riding your scooter in adverse weather conditions, or slow down and exercise extra caution if you must ride.
Conclusion
Riding an electric scooter can be a great way to travel, but safety should always come first. By following these tips—wearing the right gear, obeying traffic laws, staying aware of your surroundings, and maintaining a cautious speed—you can reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy a safer, more enjoyable ride. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the city, these safety guidelines will help ensure you get where you’re going smoothly and securely.