Gainesville is teeming with college students on a budget who choose motorized scooters as their primary form of transportation. Why not? Scooters save money on gas, are better for the environment and you can actually find a parking spot downtown and on campus.
But when these drivers “scoot” around town, they often wear something similar to shorts, flip-flops and a baseball cap. Yes, these vehicles can’t drive more than about 40 mph, but the damage they can cause is tremendous.
It’s not big news to hear about a student getting hurt in a scooter accident because it happens regularly. Someone is much more likely to get hurt in an minor accident while on a scooter versus one in a car, and there are some very practical ways to protect yourself against serious damage.
Wear full body clothing
Shorts and flip-flops will do nothing for you when your bare flesh slides against the asphalt. Even during the summertime, as inconvenient as it may seem, wear pants, a jacket and close-toed shoes.
Wear a helmet
Unfortunately, wearing a helmet on a scooter is not required. But just because it’s not the law doesn’t mean it’s not needed. A helmet could be the only barrier between your head and hitting the road at 40 mph.
Drive defensively
When you’re riding a scooter, you’re not much bigger than a bicycle. Don’t assume other motorists can see you – and don’t expect them to! Give the right-of-way when needed, check twice for oncoming traffic, and don’t ever allow yourself to become distracted when driving.
Have insurance
Insurance isn’t required for scooters, but an accident could potentially cause more bodily damage than a car accident. Often, a person doesn’t think they need insurance until after the accident happens.
Do you own a motorized scooter? Let Darr-Schackow Insurance help protect you! We’ll shop for the perfect coverage that’s right for you.
THIS BLOG IS DESIGNED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED FORMAL ADVICE. CONTACT A DARR-SCHACKOW INSURANCE AGENT FOR OFFICIAL ADVICE AND AN ESTIMATE.