8 Important Safety Tips for Using a Mobility Scooter
“By understanding key safety tips for using a mobility scooter, you will increase the safety and travel experience when in the community.”
Undoubtedly, mobility scooters can become an essential tool for seniors suffering from physical mobility challenges; by giving them a sense of freedom and independence.
But whether a mobility scooter will benefit you depends on many factors. The main factor is knowing for sure if the potential user has the cognitive function that allows them to use a scooter safely. In this regard, we recommend speaking with your doctor or accessing an Occupational Therapist to identify their capacity.
If they get the go-ahead from this standpoint, the first step is to ensure you know what their needs are and base these needs on the right, and the best mobility scooter.
Following this step is to know how to operate a mobility scooter safely and what precautions to take.
It may take some time to become comfortable and confident when riding a mobility scooter but with practice and patience, and understanding how to use it safely they’ll be on track to getting back out there and enjoying the local surroundings.
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Safety Tips For Using A Mobility Scooter
The following safety tips will help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip:
Choose the Right One
It is essential to choose the right mobility scooter according to their needs because it can enhance the driving experience while improving safety.
- If you don’t select the right scooter, this may impact safety and their ability to access the community. Leading to things like facing difficulty riding the scooter, not addressing physical limitations, or other safety issues. So make sure that the mobility scooter is safe to operate for them.
- Many factors are considered while selecting the right mobility scooter, such as weight capacity, portability, safety measures, speed, mileage, etc. For detailed information, check out the guide to choose the mobility scooter.
- And as mentioned above having an OT assessment completed eliminates the guessing game and improves your ability to choose the right scooter.
Know How to Operate
When on the search for any product we always learn as much as we can about it to get a sense of which product will be best. The same goes for mobility scooters.
After you purchase a scooter, you should:
- Read the user manual properly, and understand all the information provided by the manufacture, and how to operate the scooter accordingly. The proper attention to this step will keep you and those around you safe.
- For more information about the mobility scooter you have purchased and its proper use, you can contact customer service or even talk to a friend or acquaintance who uses the product.
- Here’s a general short video on How to use a Mobility Scooter to give you a sense on how they operate:
Practice makes perfect
One of the most essential safety tips for using a mobility scooter is practice.
We all know the saying: “Practice makes perfect”, and with patience, the user will certainly become better at using a scooter.
Therefore, practice and get used to it before riding a mobility scooter in public.
- Once you read the manual, now it’s time to take it for a drive.
- Start riding a mobility scooter in a safe environment under someone’s supervision.
- Understand the functionality and performance of the scooter and practice regularly. This allows you to understand your ride and stay safe.
When On The Road, Make Yourself Visible
Your mobility scooter needs to be visible on the road wherever you travel, especially during night or evening adventures because being visible increases your safety.
- When driving, try to make sure that the oncoming drivers can see you and your mobility scooter. It significantly reduces the risk of small or big accidents and keeps you safe.
- Visibility in daylight is much greater than at night, but you still may want to use reflective vests, stickers, flags, light strings, or any other reflective items to improve general visibility.
- And if needed, make yourself heard as well, install a horn. “Honk, honk”
Don’t Rush, Keep it Slow!
Whenever you are driving, you don’t need to rush. Driving at slower speeds is okay or at a level you feel most comfortable at. This will help the driver keep safe and other people around you. Things to be mindful of:
- Most elderly ride their scooters on the sidewalks where pedestrians also walk, and increasing the scooter speed at these places can affect others not just you you.
- Reduce the scooter speed before turning or applying brakes, as it will allow you to stop and drive the vehicle safely.
- As tempting as it might be driving the mobility scooter at its maximum speed or even faster, may lead to damaging the scooter and put the driver and others at risk.
Always Stay in Lane
The next key is the most essential safety tips for using a mobility scooter: follow road rules.
When you’re on the go, drive the scooter safely and follow the road rules, traffic lights, and other traffic signals.
- Mobile scooters are not considered motor vehicles, elderly people driving a scooter are considered pedestrian. Therefore, you should also follow the pedestrian traffic light rules and other laws or rules while riding a mobility scooter.
- You should drive a mobility scooter slowly on sidewalks, giving way to pedestrians. Also, look carefully on both sides while crossing the road. By keeping these things in mind, you and the people around you will remain safe.
Don’t Get Distracted
Any distraction can cause harm to you or someone else. These distractions include the following things:
- Firstly, do not use a mobile phone while driving the mobility scooter. As with driving a car, if you receive a text message or call, the rules state you must be stationary before you answer.
- It would help if you did not try to ride the scooter with someone else on the back. This may impact balance or lead to distractions. Consult the user manual on what the manufacturer says is the safest practice.
- Also, don’t ride the scooter side by side with a person or another scooter. Because conversing with others while riding may distract you and lead to accidents; impacting safety.
Always be Cautious
Always be cautious while riding a mobility scooter, and pay attention to small things so that you and the people around you are safe. As it is said, “The cautious seldom err.”
- Other people may not see, so be aware of other drivers and pedestrians.
- Always inspect your mobility scooter before riding, check scooter functionality and tire pressure, and charge the scooter regularly.
- If you use a foldable mobility scooter, check that it unfolds properly. If the manufacturer or state laws state, use safety gear like a helmet and check your surroundings while riding.
- Lastly, always maintain your mobility scooter so that you continue to have a seamless traveling experience even at this age.
Source:http://evrider.com/
Bonus Point: Mobility Scooter Travel Tips
If you plan to take your mobility scooter along on your next trip by air, car, or bus, then you should know a few essential things.
The safety tips for using a mobility scooter mentioned above will be the same no matter where you go.
So, here are some necessary mobility scooter travel tips when traveling with a mobility scooter.
- If you are looking for a mobility scooter that is easy to carry around, easy to fold, portable, and lightweight, then folding mobility scooters are considered the best option. Mobility Scooter by EV Rider is considered one of the best foldable and portable mobility scooters.
- Next, make sure that the mobility scooter you are carrying by air uses lithium batteries approved by the airline.
- If you spend a lot of time outdoors or traveling, then while buying a mobility scooter, make sure to check whether the mobility scooter is safe for air travel or eligible for public (bus or train) transport and whether the scooter can be kept in your car’s boot space or not.
Final thoughts – Keeping Your Loved One Cruising Safely
Let’s face it, seeing your loved one regain freedom and independence with a mobility scooter is heartwarming.
But safety always comes first! So let’s sum up this guide to ensure smooth sailing and happy adventures.
Choosing the Right Ride:
Think of it like picking the perfect car. Consider their needs – weight, comfort, and terrain they’ll be tackling. Don’t hesitate to consult an occupational therapist for expert advice.
Mastering the Controls:
A scooter isn’t a magic carpet! Reading the manual and practicing in a safe space is key. Think of it as their personal driving lesson, minus the parallel parking (phew!).
Practice Makes Perfect (and Safe):
Like any new skill, confidence comes with practice. Start in a quiet area, get comfortable with the controls, and build their scooter confidence gradually.
Be Seen, Be Heard, Be Safe:
Imagine it like decorating a Christmas tree – reflective stickers, lights, bright clothing, even a horn! Visibility is crucial, especially in low-light conditions.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race:
Speed isn’t the goal, safety is! Encourage them to cruise at a comfortable pace, mindful of pedestrians and other road users.
Stick to the Lanes and Rules:
Think of them as mini pedestrians with wheels. Sidewalks are their domain, and traffic lights are their guiding stars. Remember, safety comes first!
Distractions are a No-Go:
Texting, chatting, multitasking – these are all recipes for disaster. Encourage them to focus on the road and enjoy the ride, distraction-free.
Caution is Your Co-Pilot:
Awareness is key! Remind them to watch out for other pedestrians, drivers, and potential obstacles. A quick safety check before each ride is also a good habit.
Bonus Tip: Travel Like a Pro:
Planning a trip? Folding scooters and airline-approved batteries are your travel essentials. Research public transport options and ensure your scooter fits in the car boot.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey! There are resources and communities available to support you and your loved one. So, relax, take a deep breath, and get ready to explore the world together, safely and happily, on two wheels!