Also known as dockless scooters, e-scooters are proving popular in cities around the country as a way to travel without the hassle or expense of driving a car. Riders simply rent a scooter using a mobile app and leave them at designated areas.
One of the newest ways to get around is also one of greenest. According to the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), if you run errands by riding a scooter, bicycling or walking, you can save about 500 gallons of fuel and avoid releasing 10,000 pounds of CO2 into the air each year.
Though convenient, e-scooters require caution for the safety of the driver and those in the pathway of the vehicle, which can travel up to 20 miles an hour.
Before enjoying a ride on an e-scooter, check out these safety suggestions from SCAG:
- Helmets reduce your chance of brain injuries in case of a crash.
- Stop at all stop signs and red lights. All traffic laws apply to people riding scooters and drivers.
- Ride in bike lanes or in the street close to the curb. Don’t ride on sidewalks.
- Go with the flow. Always ride in the same direction as traffic.
- Park your scooter out of the street and out of the way of people walking. Park on the sidewalk close to the curb, or near dedicated bike or scooter parking areas.
- Every intersection is a crosswalk, even if unmarked. Always stop for people crossing the street.
- Riders must be at least 18 years old, and only one rider per scooter is allowed.
Be alert. Put your cell phone away. Keep your eyes on the road and watch for other roadway users, including people walking and biking.
For more information about e-scooter safety, visit here.