Electric scooters became popular in response to traffic congestions typical in most urban centers. Plus, there’s also the clamor for greener transport alternatives and widespread disdain for overcrowded mass transportation systems. But, of course, bikes remain the top choice for many people who opt for micromobility, which is the general term used for lightweight and single-person vehicles like bikes and scooters. Still, there is a rising demand for e-scooters as a last-mile alternative transport.
Electric scooters are relatively safe to use because they don’t have enough power for reckless driving. But these light transports figure in quite an alarming number of road accidents. Although major cities already have laws regarding micromobility vehicles, many road users still haven’t gotten used to seeing scooters on city roads. So, if you get into an accident, you should seriously consider seeking attorney services for e scooters accident claims.
That said, riders should always exercise safety while using their scooters. Here are some safety tips to help you become a responsible electric scooter rider:
1 .Do A Test Ride If You’re A Novice Rider
Commuters’ dependence on public transport dwindled in 2020 because of the pandemic. Instead of using buses and trains, many people opted to walk or use bicycles and electric scooters to travel short distances. Experts believe that micromobility will remain popular in 2021.
If you’re planning on buying an e-scooter for you or your family, it would be best to practice riding it in a parking lot or driveway until you’ve gotten the hang of using it. Since this type of transport has small wheels, you need to accustom yourself to handling turns and negotiating bumpy or slippery wet roads. Unfortunately, many novice riders get into e-scooter accidents precisely because they ply the main thoroughfares without doing a test ride first.
2. Always Use Safety Gear
A report published in the JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) Surgery showed that electric scooter accidents are rising at an alarming rate. These mishaps mainly involve head and neck trauma cases that require hospitalization. The spike may be partly due to the increasing number of people using this mode of transport.
If you’re an e-scooter rider, one way you can protect yourself from trauma is by using protective gear such as a well-fitting helmet, knee and elbow pads, closed sturdy shoes, and gloves. Using reflectors is also essential so other vehicles could see you on the road even during overcast days and nights.
3. Perform Safety Checks Before Every Ride
Busted wheels and malfunctioning brakes can also cause accidents and compromise your safety and the people around you. So, before you use your scooter, you better inspect the vehicle to ensure the brakes and wheels are in tiptop condition. Also, check if your battery is fully charged. If you detect any problems, bring your electric scooter to a service center to address the issues immediately.
4. Mind Traffic Rules
Be a responsible electric scooter rider and follow local rules. Remember, you don’t have anything sturdy enough to protect you from a collision with a car or even a bike. So, one way to prevent accidents is to follow the local traffic rules. Avoid weaving through the traffic, drive slowly, and don’t try to beat the red light. It will also help if you use hand signals to tell other drivers when you’re turning.
5. Don’t Ride Under The Influence
Some people think using an electric scooter while drunk or under the influence is not a big issue because it’s not even a full-sized vehicle. Well, it would help if you had balance and presence of mind when riding any micromobility transport. These are usually impaired after drinking alcoholic beverages. In addition, some medications, such as allergy meds that can cause dizziness, may also damage your ability to use an e-scooter.
6. Be Extra Safe At Night
Even if your destination is less than a mile away, you must be more cautious if you use your electric scooter at night. Many accidents happen during nighttime. Ensure you’re wearing a reflective device while riding at night so oncoming vehicles will see you even in dimly lit areas.
Both your hands should always be on the handle, except when you’re hand-signaling. Look ahead to see if there are small stones and other obstacles on your way. Remember, you are riding a scooter. A small hole in the ground, bumps in the road, or even a tiny stone could make you lose your balance or cause you to fall off your scooter.
The Bottom Line
Many people prefer to use electric scooters because they are a convenient, cheap, environment-friendly, and easy-to-use transport mode. However, much like other types of vehicles, their safety is the rider’s responsibility. Therefore, always keep safety a priority when riding your e-scooter. If an accident happens, make sure to consult with a legal expert to know your claims.
