Scooter Safety

I’ve decided to stick with the scooter theme for this blog and cover some safety issues. Riders of 50 cc scooters do not require a motorcycle license, though it is a good idea to take motorcycle lessons and learn the rules of the road from a biker’s point of view. Many motorcycle schools recognize scooters are becoming increasingly popular and are also offering scooter riding lessons.

First off, ride like a biker and own your lane. That means riding near the center line of the road. Too many scooters ride close to the shoulder. Invariably these scooters have a line of cars behind them, being tailgated by the first driver. They’re not trying to tailgate, they’re just trying to pass. They believe the scooter rider has moved closer to the shoulder to allow them room to pass and they’re trying to see around the rider for when its safe to pass. Ride the scooter closer to the center line and there won’t be as many tailgater problems.

Scooters have a top speed of 40 mph, maybe a little faster going downhill. They’re perfect for city driving, but stay off the freeways. Choose routes that can be safely navigated at the scooter’s speed. A scooter travelling 40 mph in a 60 mph zone will not be popular and could cause accidents when faster traffic has to suddenly slow down and pass.

Scooter riders are not invincible. Just because it’s a smaller machine than a motorcycle doesn’t mean it can’t get into an accident. Scooters travel up to 40 mph and a spill at that speed is going to hurt. And yes, scooter riders do take their share of spills. Wear proper motorcycle riding gear. At the very least that means a DOT approved helmet. Buy a good motorcycle jacket with padding to protect elbows and kidneys. Motorcycle pants with padded knees are a good investment. And padded gloves are a must. The bonus is the gear is waterproof. There is nothing worse than getting caught in a rain storm. A cold, wet, tired rider is susceptible for accidents. Wear proper foot gear. This means boots or rubber soled shoes. I can’t tell you how many scooter riders I see wearing open toed sandals. And other summertime gear might consist of shorts and T-shirts. Imagine taking a spill while travelling in city traffic in your beach wear. Road rash will be the least of your problems. Broken bones may be a real possibility. And sadly sometimes death.

If you’re planning to buy a scooter, go to the department of transportation and pick up the book that motorcycle riders get when they are going to write the test for their learner’s license. This book is full of tips that are useful to scooter riders.

Most importantly, ride like you are invisible. A car driver can look right at you and still not see you. Ride that scooter like no one knows you’re there.

Keep safe and riding a scooter will be a blast.