With the recent popularity of kick scooters, everyone from young kids to adults is hitting the pavement on two wheels. But are these scooters safe?
There have been a few high-profile accidents involving kick scooters, which has led some to question their safety.
In one incident, a nine year old boy in San Francisco was seriously injured after being hit by a car while riding his scooter.
So the query arises here, are kick scooters dangerous?
If you’re also pondering the same question, read on as we answer it in detail.
Table of Contents
Are Kick Scooters Dangerous?
Kick scooters are not dangerous if you follow the basic safety rules while riding them. However, like any other mode of transportation, there is always a risk of injury when you’re out on the road.
So, kick scooter riding is relatively safe compared to similar sports like roller skating or skateboarding.
However, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of injury while riding a kick scooter:
Get The Right Scooter
The first step to staying safe on a kick scooter is ensuring you have the right scooter.
There are two main types of kick scooters:
- The first type is the traditional kick scooter with two or three wheels propelled by kicking the ground.
- The second type is the electric scooter, which has a motor and can reach high speeds.
If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a traditional kick scooter. These scooters are easier to control and don’t go as fast as electric scooters.
Once you’ve mastered the basics of riding a kick scooter, you can move up to an electric scooter.
Also, make sure to buy a scooter that is the right size for you. A too-big scooter can be difficult to control, while a too-small scooter can be uncomfortable to ride.
Most scooter companies have size charts that you can use to find the right scooter for your height. Otherwise, you can refer to our articles like the best scooter for 12 year old, etc.
Finally, always check the scooter for any damage before riding it. A damaged scooter can be difficult to control and can lead to an accident.
Wear A Helmet
The next step to staying safe on a kick scooter is always wearing a helmet.
A helmet will protect your head in the event of a fall or collision.
There are a few things to look for when choosing a helmet:
Make sure the helmet is the right size. A too-big helmet can fall off in an accident, while a too-small helmet won’t provide enough protection.
Most helmets have an adjustable strap that you can use to get a snug fit. So make sure you choose a helmet that you can adjust to fit your head correctly.
Also, make sure the helmet is certified by the CPSC. This certification means that the helmet meets certain safety standards.
Finally, choose a helmet that is comfortable to wear. You’re more likely to wear a helmet if it’s comfortable, so don’t choose one that is too bulky or heavy. You can also read why is it compulsory to wear a helmet when scootering.
Follow The Rules Of The Road
Every city has its own rules and regulations for scooter riders.
For example, you can only ride a kick scooter on the sidewalk in New York City.
In Los Angeles, you can ride a scooter on the street, but you must yield to pedestrians and ride in the bike lane when possible.
So, make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road in your city before riding a scooter.
Not following the rules of the road can lead to an accident, so it’s essential to be aware of them.
Be Visible
When you’re riding a scooter, you need to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
This means being visible to other riders and drivers on the road.
There are a few things you can do to make sure you’re visible:
- Wear bright and reflective clothing.
- Use a headlight and taillight if your scooter has them.
- Don’t ride at night.
By being visible, you can make sure that other riders and drivers see you and can avoid an accident.
Ride Defensively
Even if you follow all of the safety tips above, accidents can still happen.
That’s why it’s important always to ride defensively.
This means being aware of your surroundings and being prepared for anything.
For example, if you see a car coming, give them plenty of space and be prepared to stop or swerve if necessary.
Riding defensively can help you avoid an accident even if someone else isn’t following the road rules.
Master The Basics
The best way to stay safe on a scooter is to master the riding basics.
This means learning how to properly start, stop, turn, and brake. If you’re a beginner, we’ve already written an article on how to ride a kick scooter for beginners, which can help you get started.
If you’re planning for commuting on a scooter you should also lhearn about is kick scooter good for commuting.
Q. Is riding a kick scooter dangerous?
Riding a kick scooter is not dangerous if you follow the safety tips above. Kick scooters are a great way to get around and have fun, but you need to be aware of your surroundings and follow the rules of the road.
Q. Are kick scooters safe for kids?
Yes, kick scooters are safe for kids, but you should know how to teach a kid to ride a scooter. Along with that, you should get them the right size scooter.
Q. Are scooters safer than bicycles?
According to a study done by the University of California, scooters are just as safe as bicycles. This is because they both require the same safety precautions.
Q. What is the safest scooter?
Kick scooters are safer than electric scooters. This is because they go slower, and you have more control over them.
Conclusion
Kick scooters are a great way to get around. They’re fun, convenient, and relatively safe if you follow the safety tips above.
So, if you’re thinking about riding a scooter and searching, are kick scooters dangerous? Follow the tips in this article, and you’ll be fine.
Have fun, and stay safe!
I am Mary Earhart, the founder of scooterideas.com. Scooter (Kick scooter, electric scooter, and more) is my passion, and I have years of teaching experience in this field. Our vision and mission are to provide you with accurate information on everything related to the scooter.