5 Tips for Safe Mobility Scooter Use
Mobility scooters give individuals with mobility problems an improved sense of freedom. Scooters eclipse the performance and ability of manual devices such as wheelchairs and walkers to provide relaxation and convenience despite people’s limitations and handicaps. Because of this, mobility scooters are now fast-becoming among the most well-known mobility devices today, used by people of all ages and professions.
A sudden rise in popularity, coupled with the lack of safety advice moving around, have led to a rise in mobility scooter-related accidents. Mobility scooters are a recent invention, and many people have not had the time or opportunity to acquaint themselves using the proper rules of usage and safety.
Whether you are searching to get a mobility scooter online, or already have one, reading and understanding these basic pointers can guide the way to a safe and beneficial time with your mobility scooter.
1. Get one that fits your needs and requirements
The very first question you need to ask before getting a mobility scooter is: Are you currently capable of using one? Consult your healthcare provider or physical therapist to check if you’re in a position to safely use a scooter.
Basic requirements for scooter operation include good visual and sensory acuity, endurance, coordination, upper body strength and balance. Do not lie about your own skills. You will not just be endangering yourself, the people around you’ll be exposed to undue threat also.
2. Practice frequently
Practice makes perfect, and what is true for many talents is accurate for mobility scooter driving. You will have to work out regularly and get used to the sensation of moving around using a mobility scooter.
Concentrate on your own personal safety in addition to the health of the people about you. Read about common traffic signs so that you’d prepared when you’re outdoors.
3. Raise your visibility
Ensure drivers and pedestrians can see you at a distance. It’s not sufficient to paint your freedom scooter a luminous colour.
Add lighting and reflective strips in strategic places through your scooter to guarantee maximum visibility, particularly during the nighttime. Be sure you could be viewed from every side and angle.
4. Adhere to the rules and regulations
Check whether it is allowed to run mobility scooters in general public spaces. Additionally, there may be additional laws and ordinances regulating the use of mobility scooters. Research about neighbourhood limitations and make sure you follow them. No exceptions.
5. Keep the scooter in good condition
Have your mobility scooter frequently inspected by a certified technician. A very easy checklist to follow: the lights are functioning, the battery is charging, the tires are properly inflated, electronics are in good shape, along with the security features are working.
Cultivate an excellent working relationship with a professional technician you aspire to guarantee regular and effortless access to maintenance and repair.
6. Always wear a helmet when driving
Deaths from injuries involving mobility scooter accidents have been recorded, and head injuries are the most frequent cause. Safely ride your scooter by sporting a helmet that is sturdy, particularly when outdoors.
7. Assume that you are invisible
It is true, you have covered your freedom scooters together with reflective strips and lights but that does not guarantee against crashes with some other folks.
Always be aware of your environment particularly when there is a great deal of cars and people around. Make eye contact with motorists and pedestrians to make sure you see them and they see you.
8. Don’t drive on roads
Roads are for vehicles. A mobility scooter, like it or not, is not a vehicle. Adhere to the sidewalk whenever possible. Driving on the street with the overall traffic is a recipe for a deadly accident.
