Riding a scooter is fun and convenient. They’re great for getting you from point A to B quickly and effortlessly, but they do come with some risks of injury if you’re not careful. Scooters can be dangerous because they are so lightweight that even the slightest bump in the road or unexpected turn could send them soaring into the air. To avoid these accidents, follow these safety tips.
Have the Right Scooter Insurance
One of the most important things you can do to stay safe while riding your scooter is to get insurance. You should always ensure that you have at least third-party liability before taking off on a ride. This will protect you in case there are scooter accidents, and you’re unable to pay for damages. It’s also important that the scooter insurance covers not just damage to your own vehicle, but any personal injury or property damage caused by the accident.
When choosing the right scooter insurance, it’s important to consider your coverage needs. If you live in a more urban area where scooters are common, standard insurance may be enough for you. Still, if you live out in the country or on isolated stretches of road, it might be worth looking into comprehensive policies that cover accidents no matter where they take place.
Watch For Hazards on the Road
Another way to avoid accidents is by being aware of your surroundings. Try not to ride on the sidewalks, as this makes you more vulnerable to pedestrians and cars that may be passing through an adjacent street or parking lot. You’re also less protected from any obstacles on a sidewalk, which could result in some scooter damage if it hits something before you do.
Instead, try to stick to the road and be sure that you’re not traveling at a high rate of speed after dusk, as it becomes more difficult for other drivers on the road to see scooters and may result in some road accidents. Always wear something reflective so people driving by can see you coming towards them, which will help prevent any potential collisions.
Pay Attention to the Weather
Weather changes can also result in some hazards to watch out for. Rain makes the roads more slippery than usual, so you should be careful if it starts pouring while you’re riding your scooter. It might not seem like a big deal, but one wrong move, and you could find yourself flying off your scooter before landing on wet asphalt, which will result in some scooter damage.
Likewise, if you’re riding your scooter during the winter where it’s cold outside, make sure to bundle up with a scarf or neck warmer, which will protect your throat from injuries that might occur when flying into the air at high speeds after sliding across an icy road.
Wear The Right Clothing
It seems simple, but wearing the right clothes can also help you avoid any scooter damage. You probably won’t be riding your scooter on a hot summer afternoon where it’s 90 degrees outside and humid as well. If this is the case, make sure to wear something that will protect your skin from getting injuries, such as some long pants or a shirt with sleeves.
Likewise, if it’s winter and there’s snow on the ground, you should wear some warm clothes to keep yourself from getting frostbite or a cold. Gloves and an extra layer of clothing will help prevent any scooter damage that could occur due to falling off while riding in the wrong gear.
Ride on a Designated Lane
If possible, try to stick to a designated lane when riding your scooter, whether it’s on the sidewalk or in the street. This will help you avoid any hazards that might be present while traveling down an open road. You also have more protection from other vehicles if you remain in a specific area, so there’s less of a chance of getting into a scooter accident.
If you’re on a sidewalk, always pass on the left side, so people can see you from behind and avoid running over your feet when they step off of an adjacent bus or taxi without looking where they are going first, which could result in some severe foot injuries that lead to scooter damage.
Always Play It Safe
By playing it safe and remaining aware of your surroundings, and wearing the proper protective gear at all times, you can help ensure that you avoid any scooter damage during a ride.
Regardless of your scooter type or make, always wear the proper protective gear when riding to avoid sustaining a serious injury that will result in some scooter damage. Do not ride to show off or go too fast because this can result in some major problems that you’re unprepared for, leading to serious scooter damage.
Riding your scooter safely is all about making sure you remain aware of your surroundings, wear the proper protective clothing and gear before riding anywhere, and make smart decisions.