Electric scooters are great for traveling in a busy city when you need to move around quickly and avoid traffic.
If you’re thinking about buying an e-scooter, first consider electric scooter etiquette you should know to ensure this is the right mode of transportation for you.
Follow Traffic Regulations
Different cities have different rules for where you can ride an electric scooter. Some can ride on public roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks.
Even though you aren’t driving a car on the road, you still need to follow traffic regulations. Stop at stoplights and stop signs. Also, yield to pedestrians crossing the street. This is the easiest way to go with the flow of traffic and keep people safe.
Communicate With Fellow Pedestrians
You move at a quicker speed on a scooter than individuals taking a stroll on the sidewalk. When you’re coming up from behind, communicate with other pedestrians that you’re present.
Use your horn as little as possible; it can be rude and unnecessary. A simple “excuse me” or “on your left” is great for keeping everyone safe.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Another electric scooter etiquette tip you should know is to be aware of your surroundings. Nothing’s worse than a person on a motorized vehicle who’s not paying attention to their surroundings.
If you’re riding your e-scooter on the sidewalk, always keep your eyes open for any sudden, unexpected movements or items in your path.
Riding With Friends
When riding on an electric scooter with a friend, your first instinct is to ride right beside them. You want to be close by to talk and have a good time. When the space allows it, feel free to ride side by side. But when it’s a busy time of day, it’s inconsiderate to take up the entire sidewalk. Instead, you should ride in a single-file line until you can continue next to one another.
These etiquette tips will help you implement safe electric scooter driving practices that benefit the well-being of everyone around you!
Feature photo by Dmitriy Ganin
