In case you missed it, electric scooters have come to Dallas in full force. Towards the end of summer, the City Council approved a motor-assisted scooter ordinance, paving the way for companies like Bird and Lime to bring pay-as-you-ride electric scooters to the area. Cities all over the country have been passing similar laws, marking a new era of city transportation. However, there are also numerous concerns when it comes to the safety of these new electric scooters. While some believe the city jumped the gun in approving the ordinance, others are supportive and think education is key to keeping riders, pedestrians, and cyclists alike safe.

One of the biggest topics surrounding electric scooters is knowing where people can safely and legally ride them. Bird, one of the main companies bringing scooters to the city, released the following statement pertaining to safety: “No riding on sidewalks unless local law requires or permits – it endangers members of our community who want to walk freely. We’re all in this together, so let’s be good neighbors and look out for one another. Ride in bike lanes or close to the right curb.” This sentiment is one that should be adopted by all, whether you will be riding a scooter or not.

Scooter Safety Rules

One of the biggest problems we’ve seen thus far with the electric scooter trend is that people forget it is a moving vehicle. It is no safer than riding a moped or other type of scooter, and they do go fairly fast. If you fall or are in any type of collision, there’s a good chance you are going to get hurt. You may remember a few years ago when self-balancing scooters and hoverboards were popular, but these resulted in numerous injuries amongst younger people. However, we are seeing just how popular electric scooters are among all age groups, which could lead to more serious injuries.

If you plan on trying out one of Dallas’ electric scooters, please keep the following safety tips in mind:

  • Wear protective gear, including a helmet, closed-toe shoes, wrist guards, and knee and elbow pads
  • Start slowly and make sure you have a feel for the brakes and accelerator before you go any faster
  • Be mindful of surrounding traffic, especially at intersections
  • Never wear headphones or earbuds while on the scooter
  • Do not try to operate an electric scooter if you’ve been drinking alcohol
  • Consider the safety of yourself and others
  • Be alert to pedestrians and other vehicles
  • When you leave the scooter somewhere, make sure it is out of the way of foot traffic, so it does not create a tripping hazard

Electric scooters around Dallas are a fun new trend, but make sure you are operating them with safety in mind. If you have been injured in a scooter accident, please contact a Dallas personal injury lawyer from Rad Law Firm today and schedule a free consultation.

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