One of the greatest benefits of using a mobility scooter is the freedom and independence you’ll  enjoy now that you are able to get around easily. However, it’s your responsibility to operate your scooter safely, especially if you intend to use it outside the home.  Following are 18 simple tips that will help you operate your scooter safely and responsibly:

Pride Go Go Sport, model SC74

1. Read your owner manual – It is important to familiarize your mobility scooters’ user manual. Most manuals include instructions on how to navigate over uneven terrain, the proper way to negotiate turns, safe braking practices, etc.

2. Practice – Before you go on long excursions, practice operating your scooter in a quiet parking lot.

3. Straight Ahead – Avoid going on inclines, like curb ramps, on an angle. You are at the greatest risk of tipping when you turn too sharply or go too fast going up or down hills or ramps.

4. Power Down – Make sure you shut off your engine when you’re finished driving your mobility scooter. For extra safety, remove the key when you’re finished using the vehicle.

5. Be Reflective – If you plan on operating your scooter at night use a fluorescent vest or other reflective gear so that you can be easily seen.

6. Be Seen – Use a safety flag at the rear of your scooter if you travel near a roadway.  A safety flag that is placed at a level above your head can be seen by motorists.

7. Drive sober! – Do not operate your mobility scooter if you are impaired by alcohol, prescription drugs or any other intoxicating substances. Alcohol and drugs compromise your judgment, putting yourself and others at risk.

8. Watch out for others – Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other mobility scooter operators are obstacles that can move into your path. It’s always prudent to drive defensively.

9. Parking Lots – Exercise caution when you’re driving through commercial parking lots where shoppers on foot or in cars are likely to emerge at any time. Be especially cautious when driving near storefronts because people can exit a store at any time.

10. Power Up – Make sure your batteries are fully charged each time you operate your scooter. Getting stranded far from home is no fun at all.

11. Speed – When you drive on footpaths, don’t exceed the speed of pedestrians.

12. Avoid Water – It is safest to drive only in dry conditions. Avoid riding in the rain, driving through puddles or traversing wet grass.

13. No hitchhikers – Don’t let kids of other passengers ride with you on your scooter unless it is designed for more than one person. Your scooter is designed to bear a specific weight load; exceeding that weight can damage its frame.

14. Phone Home –

15. Don’t leave home without your cell phone. In case of an equipment breakdown you should always have a cell phone handy so you can call for help.

16. A Must See – If you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses wear them when you ride your scooter.  You need to be able to see clearly to drive safely!

17. Know it well. It’s a good idea to check out the sidewalks and pathways in your neighborhood prior to operating your mobility scooter so you can anticipate problem areas such as high curbs, rocky terrain and areas with high bicycle traffic.

18. That’s right – It is safer, at least in the USA, to drive on the right side even when on sidewalks.

19. Horn – Only use your horn when it is absolutely necessary. But use it when needed.

If you are shopping for a mobility scooter, power wheelchair, lifts, ramps, lift chairs and mobility aids please visit ScooterDirect.com, your source for all mobility products. And be sure to be safe!