7 Safety Tips For Your Mobility Scooter
By and large, mobility scooters are a safe and convenient form of transport. But accidents happen, and when a scooter is involved, they can affect some of the most vulnerable members of society. You can help make sure you don't become one of the statistics by following these simple tips.
Get training
Before you buy your scooter, make sure that basic safety training is included and that you have the opportunity for a test drive somewhere safe. If you already have the scooter, training is available fairly cheaply and can prove to be a lifesaver.
Be visible
Even during the day, pedestrians and drivers can fail to notice mobility scooters. Make sure they see you — wear brightly coloured or fluorescent clothing, and attach a reflective safety flag to your scooter (a flag will be higher up and so will be easier for people to see). If you are likely to be using your scooter in poor light, you should also get front and rear lights.
Wear a helmet
A safety helmet, of the sort used by cyclists, will protect you from head injuries in the event of an accident — and if you buy a brightly coloured helmet, it gives you a little extra visibility into the bargain.
Avoid the roads
You are legally required to stick to footpaths as far as possible, and the legal advice is also the best safety advice. If you are obliged to use roads, try to avoid busy ones, make sure you are as visible as possible and stay near the kerb.
Get it serviced
Get your scooter serviced at least every twelve months to ensure it is still in working order. A faulty scooter can easily lead to accidents.
Stay off the booze
You may think that drink-driving laws don't apply to you, but in fact there have been many instances of accidents on mobility scooters when the driver was under the influence of alcohol. Stay sober and keep your wits about you — and if you have a drink, get a taxi home or get a friend to drive you.
Don't overload it
Make sure you aren't carrying so many parcels that the scooter is in danger of tipping over or you can't see over the top of them — and never take passengers.
Your scooter already keeps you mobile. With a little training and common sense, it will also keep you safe.