According to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), which unveiled the statistics through its Vision Zero initiative in July, scooter injuries jumped from 145 between 2017 and 2019 to 454 from 2020 to 2022—a 213% increase.
That’s why, on this occasion, we talk about safety tips to help riders minimize the risk of getting injured on an electric scooter more easily.
–Wear a helmet. It reduces the severity of head injuries in an accident. While some San Francisco riders lifted, wearing one is still highly recommended. Several companies also offer rental helmets to make it easier for riders to access them.
-Follow all traffic rules and regulations. This means obeying traffic signs and signals, riding in designated bike lanes, and avoiding riding on sidewalks or in crowded areas with an increased risk of collision.
-Keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Especially when sharing the road with more significant and faster vehicles like cars and buses. Being aware of your surroundings can prevent dangerous situations.
-Ride defensively. This means anticipating the actions of other riders and drivers and keeping an eye out for potential hazards. Maintaining a slow and steady speed on the scooter is essential, especially on uneven roads or areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. By practicing cautious and defensive riding, riders can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
-Pay attention to weather conditions. This also plays a crucial role in scooter safety. Riding in inclement weather or on wet surfaces can make it challenging to maintain control and increase the risk of accidents.
-Make proper electric scooter maintenance. To ensure it is in good condition, and before each ride, people should inspect their e-scooters. If tires are underinflated, for example, it can affect stability and lead to accidents. Regular servicing of the e-scooter will reduce the risk of breakdowns or malfunctions.
Riding an electric scooter can be fun and convenient but comes with risk. By taking precautions, riders can significantly reduce potential injuries. Taking scooter safety seriously is imperative to ensure a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
