Mobility scooters give you the freedom to move freely and easily, whether it’s around the shopping mall, in the neighborhood or when you’re on vacation. However, it’s important that you always keep in mind that you are operating a power driven vehicle, one that can cause danger to yourself and others if you do not drive it carefully.

Currently, most states do not have specific regulations governing electric scooters. Nevertheless, the State of Florida warns on its website that someday statutory regulations will exist.

Following are some examples of when you should yield to pedestrians or bicyclists;

• When riding on a narrow bridge path that’s protected by railings or concrete embankment. Resort areas often have lots of pedestrian traffic across bridges which lead from hotels to nearby shopping areas. Often pedestrians will pause to look at the water or passing boats. Obviously, if you are traveling at 3.5 miles per hour on your mobility scooter you have a duty to warn the pedestrians that you are coming.

• You should never operate your mobility scooter on a busy thoroughfare, even within a bike lane. Instead, it’s safer to drive your scooter on the sidewalk. However, if for some reason you are driving within a bicycle lane, make sure you warn oncoming bicyclists who can be riding at high speeds that you are in the bicycle lane.

• Whether you are operating your mobility scooter in residential areas or on park paths be especially aware of animals who might cross your path. Dogs and cats frequently run in front of motorized vehicles, so make sure you are always vigilant when you are driving.

Operating your mobility scooter should be fun. Tooling around on your scooter is a great way to sightsee, commute to work or get to a desired nearby destination quickly. In addition to observing common sense driving tactics (even if your state does not have a law that mandates when you should yield right of way), you should always make sure your mobility scooter is in tip-top running condition.  Additionally, perform the following safety checks before you use your mobility scooter:

1. Make sure your wheels are not worn

2. Check your battery level; make sure it is recharged. And know exactly how long you can operate your mobility scooter before the battery level gets low.

3. Make sure your brakes are operating properly.

4. Check to see if your horn, lights and signals are in working order.

5. Adjust your seat to the most comfortable setting and while doing so make sure that it is secure

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