Are Electric Scooters Safe to Ride?

The rise in popularity of electric scooters has revolutionized urban commuting. Both urban inhabitants and environmentally aware commuters love them for their cost-effectiveness, convenience, and eco-friendly appeal. However, as more individuals use this cutting-edge form of transportation, the topic of whether electric scooters are safe to ride comes up.

This article explores riding best practices, electric scooter safety features, and all you need to know to have a fun and safe ride. Read on to find out everything you need to know to guarantee a safe and easy ride, whether you're a novice rider, a safety enthusiast, or someone thinking about buying your first electric scooter.

Safety Features of Electric Scooters

Although electric scooters come with safety features to keep users safe, it's important to know these aspects in order to pick a dependable ride.

Essential Safety Features of Electric Scooters

1. Braking Systems:

Advanced braking systems like hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, electronic brakes, or foot brakes are standard on modern-day electric scooters. Disc brakes are very dependable for city commuting since they provide rapid and smooth stopping force.

2. Lighting Systems:

When biking in cities, visibility is essential, particularly at night. To make sure you're visible to other drivers, high-quality electric scooters are built with side reflectors, rear lights, and front LED headlights.

3. Tires and Suspension:

Better control and stability are achieved by using pneumatic tires and appropriate suspension systems to absorb shocks from uneven surfaces. Despite being puncture-free, solid rubber tires frequently provide less cushioning.

4. Speed Limits and Modes:

You can switch between several speed modes on a lot of scooters. For first-time riders, beginner modes limit speed, making riding safer.

5. Anti-Slip Platforms:

Your feet will have a firm grip even in wet conditions thanks to wide, textured decks.

How Electric Scooters Compare to Traditional Scooters and Bicycles

Electric scooters offer increased maneuverability and visibility compared to traditional scooters. Unlike bicycles, they’re compact and require less parking space, but their smaller wheels might struggle on uneven terrain. Recognizing these differences helps riders adjust to varying road conditions.

Best Practices for Safe Riding

• Pay attention to pedestrians and drive at a moderate pace, especially in congested regions.
• Steer clear of distractions when riding, such as using your phone.
• Treat electric scooters like vehicles and always heed road signs and traffic signals.

Common Accidents and How to Prevent Them

Understanding common accidents can help prevent them and keep your rides safe.

Frequent Electric Scooter Accidents

1. Collisions with Vehicles or Pedestrians:

Riders may find themselves in the blind spots of larger vehicles or come too close to pedestrians when riding on sidewalks.

2. Loss of Control on Rough Terrain:

Uneven surfaces or potholes can destabilize scooters with smaller wheels.

3. Brake Failures or Overshooting Turns:

Sudden stops or sharp turns may cause skidding, especially on slippery roads.

4. Over-Speeding:

Riders who exceed safe speed limits face an increased risk of accidents.

Tips to Prevent Accidents

1. Training:

Before venturing onto busier roads, practice in quieter areas to build confidence and skill.

2. Routine Maintenance:

Regularly check brakes, tire pressure, and the scooter's lighting to ensure everything functions properly.

3. Stay Alert:

Anticipate actions of other road users and maintain a safe distance at all times.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Why PPE Matters

Even with safety features, mishaps can still occur with electric scooters. PPE serves as a failsafe, reducing injuries from collisions or falls.

Recommended PPE for Riders

1. Helmet:

Always wear a certified helmet that fits snugly to protect against head injuries. EZbike Canada sells the TSG Pass Pro Full Face helmets that are lightweight and highly durable.

2. Elbow and Knee Pads:

Reduce the impact of falls and protect these vulnerable joints. EZbike Canada sells the Monster Park Elbow Pads, Monster Park Knee Pads, Leatt Knee Pads.

3. Gloves:

Provide better grip and protect your hands during falls. EZbike Canada sells these cycling  gloves that would prevent any slippage.

4. High-Visibility Vest:

Improve visibility, especially in areas with heavy traffic or low lighting. EZbike sells these Rockbro High-Visibility Vest  here.

5. Sturdy Shoes:

Avoid sandals or heels; wear closed-toe shoes with a good grip to enhance control.

Buying Guide for Safe Electric Scooters

Here are some things to think about if you're looking for an electric scooter and safety is your top priority:

Key Features to Look For

1. Braking System:

Opt for scooters with dual braking systems (e.g., disc brakes combined with electronic brakes). For example, the Nami Klima Max electrical scooter has the dual hydraulic disc brakes. Or the all-new 2025 Segway ZT3 Pro has dual mechanical brakes that will help you stop on a dime.

2. Build Quality:

Choose scooters made from durable materials like steel or aluminum alloys. Segway electric scooters are made from both aluminium and steel. Other brands like Nami construct their scooters out of steel tubing, and Apollo scooters from 6061 Aluminium.

3. Weight Capacity:

Make sure the weight capacity of the scooter meets or above your needs. Most scooters have a weight limit of 265 lbs. If you are above the weight capacity limit then you risk damaging the frame and using it beyond it’s capabilities.

4. Battery Life:

Choose scooters with greater battery ranges because stopping frequently can make you recharge in dangerous places, which raises your risk. Electric scooters come with many different batteries. Please note that during winter, battery life can be affected by up to 15% compared to the stated range from the manufacturer. Battery ranges quoted by manufacturers are also over exaggerated. It’s best to follow the 80% rule where if a manufacturer says that the Segway Max G2 will get 69 kilometers, you should expect 50-55 kilometers of range.

5. Warranty and Support:

A warranty speaks to the manufacturer's confidence in the scooter’s safety and quality. The standard for most e-scooter manufacturers is 1 year on the battery, motor, control, display and other main electrical components.

Electric Scooters Can Be Safe and Sustainable Transportation

When it comes to electric scooters, safety is crucial, but with the correct safety measures, they may continue to be an enjoyable, environmentally responsible, and effective form of transportation. You may reduce hazards and take use of the advantages electric scooters offer to urban mobility by being aware of their safety features, following the law when riding, and arming oneself with the right equipment.

Always put safety first by being knowledgeable and organized, regardless of your level of experience. Help raise awareness about safe electric scooter riding by sharing this blog with your friends and neighbours; it might save a life.