Safe Scootering for Summer

Scooters have been popular among children and teenagers for the last several years. Whether non-motorized or the higher-priced motorized type, scooters can be seen in virtually every neighborhood. But as they have become increasingly more popular, so have the number of scooter-related injuries especially during the summer months. While the majority of injuries are cuts, bruises and sprains, injuries can also be more serious, such as broken bones and dislocations. If the crash involves a vehicle, injuries could be catastrophic, including a head injury, spinal cord injury, or even death.

• A Kentucky child was left in critical condition after being struck by a vehicle while riding on an electric scooter. The collision occurred in the center of the roadway.
• A 9-year-old Massachusetts boy was transported to the hospital after being struck by a vehicle while riding his scooter. No additional details about the crash were immediately released.
• A 12-year-old New York girl was riding a power scooter and suffered head and facial injuries after she was struck by a vehicle. The girl was not wearing a helmet at the time.

Though there is risk involved in owning and riding a scooter, there are a number of measures you can take to prevent accidents and injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the same precautions for scooters as for bicycling and in-line skating.

• Wear an approved helmet that meets safety standards. It is also important to find the right fit.
• Use knee and elbow pads.
• Wear closed-toed, sturdy shoes, with some support in the ankles.
• Check the height and weight suggestions or restrictions of the scooter to be sure it is the perfect one for your child.
• Ride scooters on smooth, paved surfaces without traffic, and avoid streets and surfaces with water, sand, gravel or dirt.
• Know how to stop suddenly and make quick turns.
• Make eye contact. When you see motorists, make sure they see you especially before crossing the street.
• Leave the earbuds and headphones at home so you can listen for approaching vehicles.
• Do not ride scooters at night.
• Young children should not use scooters without close supervision.

Making the effort to actually put these safety precautions into play, coupled with a little common sense, will greatly reduce your chance of injury or death. Happy Scootering!

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