Scooter Safety
Do you turn into a terror on your scooter? Is your scooter falling to bits? Has your mum or dad checked over your scooter recently?
We normally see about 20 scooter related accidents every year in Jersey's Emergency Department, but it seems to be on the increase in 2011. Read on and find out more.....
So do you have a scooter? You know the lightweight, foldable scooter that you push along with one leg on the ground and the other on the scooter?
They are really popular at the moment so take a minute and read on because accidents caused by scooters are on the up. Mostly it's cuts, bruises and sprains but some involve broken bones.
Give your scooter a quick look before you get on it. The handle bars should be tight, the break not sticking and the wheels turning easily.
Keep your eyes on the road. Never look down when scooting because you are more likely to fall off and take a tumble. Look out ahead for things in the way.
Turn slowly. Lean into the corner with your body then follow this through with the handle bars. If you turn too quickly the back wheel will spin out and you will fall off!
Brake using the brake. Try not to use your foot to slow down but use the back brake or bend your knees so your weight moves to the back and this will make the brake work.
Scoot on the flat. It works better that way and you can keep an eye on what is coming. Gravel may lock the wheels and you could fall off.
Wear the right kit. A helmet is vital, and what about knee pads or wrist guards? If you ride your scooter to school watch out for those cars and don't scoot on the road.
