10 E-Scooter Safety Tips For the Beginner

Imagine zipping through the city, bypassing traffic, and knowing you're doing your bit for the environment.

That's the e-scooter experience—convenient, eco-friendly, and increasingly popular.

But there's a flip side. A recent study highlighted a concerning gap: only 9% of e-scooter injuries made it to official records, and even more alarmingly, just 25.9% of serious incidents were reported.

With PACTS (Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety) revealing 37 fatalities since 2019, the message is clear: safety isn't just a suggestion; it's essential.

So, whether you're a first-timer or brushing up on basics, these 10 e-scooter safety tips are your roadmap to a safer ride.

Let's dive in.

1. Helmet Safety: Your Helmet, Your Best Friend

Choosing the right helmet can be as crucial as selecting the e-scooter itself.

A helmet that fits well should sit snugly on your head without being too tight, allowing for slight movement but not enough to slide over your eyes or off your head.

Look for helmets that meet official safety standards, such as those set by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) or equivalent international bodies.

Ventilation is also key for comfort, especially for longer rides.

Remember, a helmet can drastically reduce the risk of serious head injuries, making it an indispensable part of your riding gear.

Whether you're popping down to the shop or commuting to work, never ride without it.

2. Familiarise Yourself: Know Your Ride

Every e-scooter has its quirks, from the sensitivity of its throttle to the responsiveness of its brakes.

Dedicate time to understand these nuances. Begin with a stationary check: locate the throttle, brakes, bell, and lights.

Then, practice using them while still.

When you feel ready, slowly test each function in a controlled environment.

This not only includes accelerating and stopping but also using the lights and horn.

Familiarity breeds confidence, ensuring you're prepared for the roads ahead.

3. Practice in a Safe Area: Practice Makes Perfect

An empty parking lot or a quiet park with paved paths are ideal places to begin.

Practice starting and stopping, making smooth turns, and adjusting your speed gradually.

Pay attention to how your e-scooter handles different maneuvers and surfaces.

This practice builds muscle memory and intuition, which are invaluable for navigating more complex and unpredictable urban environments.

4. Obey Traffic Laws: The Rules of the Road

Your e-scooter is a vehicle, and that means respecting traffic signals, signs, and lanes just like any other road user.

Familiarise yourself with local regulations regarding e-scooters.

Some areas may require riders to use bike lanes, while others allow e-scooters on certain roads but not sidewalks.

Understanding and adhering to these rules not only keeps you safe but also promotes harmony on the roads.

5. Be Visible: See and Be Seen

Low visibility is a major factor in many e-scooter accidents. Use front and rear lights on your e-scooter, especially in low light conditions.

Consider adding reflective strips to your helmet, clothing, or scooter.

Bright clothing during the day and reflective gear at night can significantly increase your visibility to others.

Remember, it's not just about you seeing where you're going, but also about others seeing you.

6. Mind Your Speed: Speed Thrills but Kills

Speed control is vital, particularly in areas with high pedestrian traffic or when navigating through tight spaces.

Always adjust your speed according to your environment.

High speeds make it harder to react to sudden obstacles or changes in traffic.

Keeping a moderate pace allows you more time to observe your surroundings and act accordingly.

7. Avoid Distractions: Eyes Up, Phone Down

Distractions can significantly impair your ability to react to the unexpected.

Using your phone, changing songs, or even eating while riding can lead to accidents.

If you must take a call or text, safely pull over and stop. Keep both hands on the handlebars and your attention on the road at all times.

8. Watch for Hazards: Obstacle Course

Urban environments are filled with potential hazards: potholes, uneven pavements, wet leaves, and more.

Maintain a vigilant watch for such obstacles, and learn to navigate around them safely.

Slowing down and giving yourself time to react is often the best approach.

Regularly inspect your route for new hazards, especially if it's part of your daily commute.

9. Yield to Pedestrians: Pedestrians First

Pedestrians have the right of way, and as a more agile vehicle, it's your responsibility to avoid them safely.

Be especially cautious around children, the elderly, and pets, who may be unpredictable.

Slow down and use your bell or voice to make them aware of your presence, giving them ample space and time to react.

10. Stay Sober: Sober Riding

Riding under the influence impairs your judgment, balance, and reaction times, making it a significant risk to yourself and others.

Always ride sober, and if you've been drinking, opt for public transport or a ride-sharing service instead.

Safety should always be your top priority, and that means making responsible choices about when and how to ride.

By expanding on these tips, the guidance becomes not only more detailed but also more practical, providing readers with a clearer understanding of how to safely enjoy riding their e-scooter.

Ride safe, ride smart.

FAQs

Can I ride an e-scooter on the sidewalk?

In many urban areas, riding e-scooters on sidewalks is not allowed due to the potential risk they pose to pedestrians. It's important to check local regulations as laws vary by location. Typically, e-scooters are advised to be used in bike lanes or on the road, adhering to the same rules that apply to bicycles. Always prioritise safety for both yourself and pedestrians by riding in designated areas.

What should I do if my e-scooter breaks down while I'm riding?

If your e-scooter experiences a malfunction or breakdown, safely steer to the side of the road or pathway out of the flow of traffic. If it's a rental, report the issue through the service's app and follow their instructions. For personal e-scooters, it's wise to carry a basic toolkit for minor repairs. However, for significant issues, contact a professional repair service to ensure your scooter is safely operable before riding again.

How do I safely share the road with cars and bicycles?

Sharing the road safely involves being predictable, visible, and aware. Use designated bike lanes whenever possible, and signal your intentions to turn or stop well in advance. Stay alert to the movements of cars and bicycles, maintaining a safe distance. Equally important is making yourself visible through the use of lights and reflective clothing, especially during early morning, late evening, or at night. Always wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws to protect yourself and others.