Electric scooters are as safe as the next vehicle. And if that's true, it all comes down to you—the user. You can scoot like a possessed maniac or play by the book and avoid places with ominous-sounding acronyms like ER, MRI, or TBI. To help you out, we prepared a quick guide with neat tips and tricks.
Gear Up for Safety
Protective gear can be a deciding factor in many situations on busy city streets. Something might happen even if you take it slow and abide by every rule in the book. Gearing up gives you peace of mind and a better chance to avoid serious injuries. It's worth spending the extra buck just for good measure.
The Helmet Mandate
First things first: your noggin needs protection. Helmets aren't just an accessory; they're a necessity. With studies showing a significant reduction in head injuries among helmeted electric scooter riders, it's clear that this simple piece of gear can be a lifesaver. If you don't like how you look in a helmet, grin and bear it, or maybe get a cool one.
Additional Protection
Don't stop at helmets—knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, and gloves can add an extra layer of safety, cushioning the blow from falls and scrapes. As an added benefit, you'll look like a pro or the Mandalorian. This is the way!
Visibility is Key
Bright, reflective clothing can make you stand out, especially during night rides. Future gear might include helmets with built-in hazard alerts or impact sensors, making visibility and protection more high-tech than ever. How cool would that be!? But for now, we are left with hi-viz clothes, which you may think look tacky, but they can prevent a nasty accident.
Safety Tips
1. Pre-ride check
Before you kick off, take a moment for a pre-ride check. It's like giving your scooter a quick health check-up. Ensure the brakes are responsive, the tires are adequately inflated, and the battery has enough juice for your trip. A well-maintained scooter promises a smoother ride and sidesteps unexpected hiccups along the way. Make it a habit and keep both you and your ride happy!
Here's your pre-ride checklist:
2. Helmet up!
Helmet hair is way cooler than a head injury! Wearing a helmet is a non-negotiable safety measure regardless of how short your journey is. It's your safety net that significantly reduces the risk of head injuries. Pick a helmet that's comfortable, fits well, and has proper safety certifications. Making it a part of your riding attire can turn a potential accident into a minor hiccup. And in some cases, some extra safety gear might be in order.
3. Ride solo, ride smart
We know it's tempting to share your ride with a friend, but electric scooters are a solo act for a reason. Would you put two people in a Formula 1 car? Why? Because there's not enough room. The same goes for electric scooters. Doubling up can affect the scooter's balance and control, making accidents more likely. Not to mention that each electric scooter has a weight limit, and two people are far above it. Respect the scooter's design and enjoy the ride the way it's intended – solo. It ensures both your safety and the optimal performance of the electric scooter.
4. Slow roll, master control
Ease into your ride with a gentle start. Familiarize yourself with the throttle and brake responses to understand how your electric scooter behaves. Taking it slow initially helps you gain confidence and ensures you're in control, reducing the risk of future accidents. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the ride safely, not to set speed records on city streets.
5. Practice makes perfect
Before hitting the busy streets, take your scooter for a spin in a safe, open area. Practice turning, stopping quickly, and circumventing small obstacles. It's a great way to build your riding skills in a controlled environment, making you a more confident and safe rider when you're out and about.
6. Sidewalks are off-limits
Sidewalks are for pedestrians, not for e-scooters. Riding among pedestrians can create dangerous situations. Even if there are no official regulations banning electric scooters from sidewalks, always use bike lanes or roads where electric scooters are allowed.
7. Obey the rules of the road
E-scooters share the road with cars, bikes, and other vehicles, which means the same rules apply. Stop at red lights, yield to pedestrians, and signal your turns. Being predictable and respectful on the road keeps you safe and fosters a positive environment for all road users.
8. Alcohol and scooting do not mix
Mixing alcohol with scooting is a recipe for disaster. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and reaction times, making riding unsafe for you and others. Always opt for a sober ride to ensure you reach your destination safely. Remember, there's no shame in leaving your scooter behind for a safe ride home.
9. Phone Down, Eyes Up
Distractions can come in many forms, but your phone is the main culprit. Reading your messages on Instagram or Messenger not only divides your attention, but also significantly increases the risk of accidents. With Apollo scooters “phone as display” feature, you can turn your smartphone into a dashboard, preventing you from using it in a precarious manner.
10. Be seen at night
Visibility is key to staying safe, especially at night. Equip your scooter with lights and wear reflective gear to ensure other road users see you. It's a simple measure that enhances your safety and makes nighttime riding a breeze.
11. Take a rain check
Wet roads can make scooter riding risky, as rain makes roads slippery. This greatly reduces tire grip, making it much easier to lose control, skid, and crash. Consider delaying your trip or choosing an alternative mode of transportation in such weather conditions. If you must ride, slow down and be extra cautious. Remember, it's better to arrive late than not at all.
12. Maintain your ride
Regular maintenance keeps your scooter in the best condition for safe and enjoyable rides. Check for wear and tear, ensure the firmware is up-to-date, and get professional tune-ups when needed. If you can't do it yourself or lack the time, you can find shops where pros will take good care of your electric scooter. Apollo Scooters has a wide net of such servicing locations. You can find them here.
13. Choose the right scooter
Not all electric scooters are created equal. When choosing an e-scooter, focus on what you will use it for. Whether you want to commute to work, have an occasional spin, or release your inner speed demon. Then, go for the model that fulfills those requirements.
Watch the video to choose the right champion:
The next step is to do your due diligence and find a reliable brand that emphasizes extensive testing, high-quality materials, and design. Brands like Apollo Scooters go the extra mile to make your experience safe and smooth. Check out our selection of electric scooters.
Know Your Laws
Regulations vary greatly across Canada, with cities and states having specific rules. It's crucial always to check your local laws to stay in the loop and avoid potential fines or safety issues. Some common regulations across many provinces include speed limits, helmet requirements (especially for younger riders), and restrictions on where you can ride (sidewalks vs. roads vs. bike lanes). Staying informed about the rules keeps you legal and makes for a more responsible and safer electric scooter experience for everyone.
General rules across Canada:
- Age Requirements: Minimum age limits often apply. Typically, riders must be 14 or older, and some provinces may require those under 18 to have a specific type of driver's license.
- Helmet Laws: Most provinces mandate helmet use, especially for younger riders. Always protect your head!
- Speed Limits: E-scooters often have maximum speed limits, frequently around 20-32 km/h (12-20 mph).
- Where to Ride: Regulations vary greatly. Some areas allow e-scooters on sidewalks, bike lanes, and roads with lower speed limits. Others restrict them to bike lanes and roads only.
- Lights & Signals: Many provinces require front and rear lights for night riding and may require turn signals on some models.
- Insurance and Registration: While not universal, some areas may require you to register your e-scooter or have basic insurance coverage.
For more details about the specific regulations in your state, visit our blog post: Electric Scooter Laws 2024 in Canada: Everything you need to know.
Apollo as a Reliable Brand
When shopping for your next e-scooter, look no further than Apollo for a reliable brand that prioritizes safety, durability, and cutting-edge design. Our reputation for quality gives you the peace of mind you're investing in a scooter built to last. A trusted brand like Apollo means you have a dependable ride, backed by their commitment to customer satisfaction, making your scooting adventures much smoother.
Conclusion
If you apply the above tips & tricks and stick to them, you will have no problem with scooting around to your heart’s content. Happy scooting!
